We had the pleasure in acting for a young man (now aged 17) and his parents, who were unhappy with the management of his delivery at the old Princess Margaret Hospital in Swindon during August 1993. This caused him to suffer a brachial plexus injury to his right (non-dominant) shoulder and elbow.
Fortunately, with surgery and physiotherapy, he has achieved a recovery of considerable function in his arm. Although there is some impairment to the rotation of his arm and elbow extension, he is able to play sports, including canoeing and racket sports, but cannot play sports like basketball. He is able to cope with most aspects of teenage life and hopes, in time, to find a desk job with the Police.
It is our case that he suffered an avoidable injury as a result of excessive (and negligent) traction during his delivery. The notes contained very little information about what had happened. We wrote to the Health Authority giving them notice of our client’s claim and they indicated at an early stage a willingness to settle his claim. After negotiations, we were able to agree upon a settlement figure which our client and his parents were happy with. This settlement was approved by a Judge at Court.
S. J. Edney solicitors obtained compensation of £100,000 for this client in 2010