0800 689 3206

Nottingham Baby Deaths

A recent article in the times highlights the ongoing problems at some NHS trusts where babies have sadly died or been left with life changing injuries .

Despite this and the recent conviction of Lucy Letby, a Nurse at the Countess of Chester Hospital, lessons are still not being learnt. Openness and honesty is the best way when things go wrong. Patients are often happy to accept the apology and move on, accepting things can sometimes go wrong. Offering to help with their ongoing problems and support can be a great help. Unfortunately, we come across circumstances where there has been no explanation of what has gone wrong. Patients are left to fend for themselves. This often drives them to look at alternatives, including instructing lawyers to investigate whether there is a claim. Tragically the case of Lucy Letby involves many other agencies. Further investigations and prosecutions may follow.

The NHS duty of Candour has gone some way to address patients concerns. Everyone wants a better and safer NHS. The best policy is to be open and supportive. In the long run it will save costs, time, and effort. We learn from our mistakes and when things go wrong, we should do our best to put them right.

It's encouraging to hear the trust are getting better at admitting when things do go wrong.

As these examples show, that is not always the case.

Here at Forbes Solicitors, we have conducted many claims over the years where the NHS have denied liability only to go on and admit it in the face of court proceedings. Even when fault is admitted, lengthy and costly arguments can develop about the extent of the damage, harm, and loss the poor treatment has caused.

If you, a friend or loved one, have been unfortunate enough to suffer an injury as a result of a medical mistake it may be worth writing to the organisation setting out your concerns. They should acknowledge your letter within a few weeks and provide you with a full written response a few months later. They may call you in to discuss it face to face. Either way we recommend you ask for a response in writing.

If you feel you have been let down or need some help with recovering any losses arising from a medical mistake, please contact one of the team for some no-win, no fee, no obligation advice.

For more information contact John Bennett in our Clinical Negligence department via email or phone on 01254 872111. Alternatively send any question through to Forbes Solicitors via our online Contact Form.

Learn more about our Clinical Negligence department here

Fixed Costs Explosion

Trial win for spouse - the importance of engaging with litigation…