University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust & Anor v AB & Ors [2025] EWCOP 45 (T3)

Best interests decision regarding whether AB should have a new PEG tube fitted where his deputy, and mother, was unsupportive of the plans.

AB, who is 30, has severe disabilities since birth and requires full time care. EF was appointed personal welfare deputy in 2022. He had a PG tube inserted in 2016 to help his feeding but it has not been changed since and it now appears to be leaking requiring medical intervention to insert a new one. The relationship between the applicant trust and EF has become strained, with EF making allegations over poor care, and she initially opposed the plans.

After reviewing the evidence, Williams J concludes that it is in AB's best interests to undergo the treatment as while "his admission is not urgent, it is absolutely necessary" At [76] he also notes the injunctive orders sought, which will enable the decision to be put into effect if EF does not co-operate, "are rare and draconian [and] – should be wholly unnecessary were EF to have demonstrated a more objective approach."

Read the judgment on Bailii