“No-one rushed, No-one hurried, and it was her heartbeat”
A recent article published by the BBC, has once again highlighted the poor standard of maternity care provided by Devon Hospitals, and the devastating consequences it has had on families across the county.
Sadly, in one instance a baby girl died 17 days after a delayed emergency caesarean at Torbay Hospital and in another case, involving North Devon District Hospital, the mother was prescribed incorrect medication causing a placental abruption. Whilst in this instance the child survived, she has since been diagnosed with epilepsy and cerebral palsy.
Both maternity units have been rated by the health regulator as requiring improvement, but they are not the only units in Devon to receive this rating. In March 2023, Derriford Hospital in Plymouth had its rating downgraded to ‘requires improvement’ after an inspection. The inspectors found that ‘there were not enough staff to care for women and keep them safe’ and Carolyn Jenkinson, CQC deputy directors of secondary and specialist healthcare, amongst other comments said:
Sadly, at Wolferstans these findings are not surprising as we have seen through many clients the devastating impact that poor maternity care can have. What is surprising however is that these errors continue to occur, devastating the lives of many families through either the loss of a baby or injury to the baby or mother.
Elizabeth Smith, Partner and Head of the Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Departments at Wolferstans has been helping families who have suffered through poor maternity care, for over 20 years. Recently, in 2023, she secured a significant settlement for a case similar to that which the BBC has reported. Shortly after birth, a baby boy named Harry, suffered neonatal seizures, and was diagnosed with brain damage. Sadly, during the labour and delivery hospital staff failed to act when concerns were raised for the baby’s wellbeing. Harry now suffers with cerebral palsy, microcephaly, seizure disorder, delayed speech and language development and behavioural difficulties.
Whilst no amount of investigation or compensation can change what happened to Harry, Wolferstans were able to recover a significant payment of £6,750,000.00, along with regular annual payments to cover his ongoing care and case management to ensure that he receives the care he now requires for life.
"These types of settlements are important for families who have suffered to this extent, as it not only provides financial security, but also ensures lifelong peace of mind for the individual, and their family. The settlements enable families to plan for all future needs and ensure that there will always be support when its needed". - Elizabeth Smith, Head of Medical Negligence and Personal Injury
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