A 12 year old girl, who was born healthy but suffered brain damage due to treatment delays as a new-born, has been awarded millions in medical negligence compensation.
Delay in treatment
The High Court heard how the young girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, became ill shortly after her birth at Warrington Hospital. Christopher Johnson QC told the court that she would not have suffered any lasting effects at all had she been diagnosed promptly. Instead, delays in her treatment left the young girl with ‘extensive needs’.
£2.5 million pay-out
Judge Mr Justice Goss awarded the 12 year old a total of £2.5 million in medical negligence compensation.
As well as the one off payment, the judge awarded her with an annual allowance of £260,000. Furthermore, the annual pay-outs will increase to £312,000 once the girl reaches her nineteenth birthday.
Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which manages the hospital, admitted liability and agreed to settle the girl’s claim, brought by her mother.
Margaret Bowron QC, representing the Trust, told the court an apology had been made to the family. She added that it was hoped the financial settlement would bring them “peace of mind”.
‘Small measure of comfort’
Mr Justice Goss said it would be “a small measure of comfort” as he addressed the girl’s parents. He went on to say:
“Nothing that the law can do can undo what has taken place, as you well know, and I am sure not a day has gone by when that hasn’t crossed your minds.
“Your daughter is clearly a remarkable child and that, in a sense, is a blessing for you – it is also plain to see that the love and affection you have for her is remarkable.”
Medical negligence compensation claims – expert advice
Medical negligence compensation may be available where the service provided by a medical professional falls below the accepted standards of practice.
Following an instance of medical negligence, you could benefit from rehabilitation support. Depending on your circumstances, we may be able to help you to access a complete package of support, including:
•Income support
•Transport (e.g. wheelchair access vehicle)
•Home adaptations (e.g. access ramp, stair lift)
If you believe that you may be entitled to medical negligence compensation, speak to our expert team of personal injury solicitors today. Remember, we offer you a FREE no-obligation consultation. Call 0800 888 6 888 or email .
Source: BBC News
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