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'Wonderful' Boy Stricken By Meningitis Awarded Seven-Figure Compensation

There can be nothing crueller than injuries suffered by a baby during or soon after birth – but compensation can at least ensure that their care needs are met for life. In a case on point, a little boy who fell victim to meningitis within hours of his delivery obtained multi-million-pound compensation from the NHS.

Medical staff at the hospital where the boy, now nine, was born failed to treat the potentially fatal infection quickly enough with antibiotics. As a result, damage to his brain left him suffering from cerebral palsy affecting all four limbs. Although capable of operating a switch with one hand, he relies on others for all his care needs and functions mentally at the level of a much younger child.

Following extensive negotiations, the NHS trust that managed the hospital admitted liability in full for his injuries and agreed to a settlement of his claim. Together with a £3.4 million lump sum, he will receive annual, index-linked and tax-free payments to cover the costs of his care for life. Those payments will start at £230,000 a year, rising to £305,000 a year when he reaches the age of 19.

In approving the settlement, a judge said that family photographs of the youngster showed him to be a wonderful little boy with an infectious smile. Although it was extraordinarily cruel that he had suffered such a devastating injury, he was much loved by all his family and his parents had borne the tragedy with extraordinary fortitude.

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If you or a member of your family suffers injury as a result of negligent medical treatment, we can help you obtain an appropriate settlement. Contact us to discuss your claim.
Although correct at the time of publication, the contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article. Please contact us for the latest legal position.