Returning to St James's Buildings

From 3 August 2020, we will resume holding hearings in our hearing centre, ensuring we can continue to carry out our duty to protect the public.

By reopening our hearing centre in St James’s Buildings (SJB), Manchester, with social distancing and additional hygiene measures in place, we will be complementing those hearings which are already being held remotely.

Holding more hearings means our tribunals can make independent decisions in a timely manner. This is fair to all those involved, including doctors, patients and witnesses.

Throughout July we will continue to hold hearings remotely, either virtually or on the papers. Where a hearing is virtual it is possible to observe the public sessions by prior arrangement from a viewing gallery at our hearing centre. Hearings taking place at SJB from August onwards can also be observed in the usual way. If you’re interested in observing a hearing please contact us at least 14 days prior to the hearing’s start date by emailing enquries@mpts-uk.org. 

We’re following the most up to date UK government and Public Health England guidance to ensure our hearings at SJB are as safe as possible. Our approach to the holding of hearings will remain under constant review.

Visitors to the hearing centre will see now-familiar social distancing measures in public areas, such as acrylic screens, disinfectant wipes and gels, and floor markers alongside other measures which are being implemented to reopen the building as safely as possible.