You may have recently read in The Independent and other news websites that an independent review is currently investigating more than 800 cases of alleged poor care by The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust.

At the heart of the concerns that have been raised are real people, many of whom have allegedly suffered injuries while in the Trust’s care or are grieving the loss of a loved one. Tragically, in many of these cases, the loss has been that of a new mother or a new-born child, with the Shropshire Star reporting that the independent review are investigating the deaths of at least 42 babies and three mothers, in addition to 50 cases where babies suffered brain damage and more than 47 cases of sub-standard care. Our deepest sympathies of course go out to all those who have been affected.

Families who have concerns about the quality they have received from The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust can contact the independent review’s chair, Ms Donna Ockenden by email at maternityreview@donnaockenden.com or by calling 01243 786993.

Each case will have its own circumstances. Thus, in addition to contacting the independent review with their concerns, it is also important that families seek expert legal advice as they may be entitled to compensation. This is particularly important when considering cases where complications have occurred at birth or you have sustained injuries due to poor or negligent care as the full extent of the injuries may not become apparent for some time. Therefore, it is important to ensure you gain the maximum amount of compensation as compensation can help to pay for any additional treatment or therapy needed and can also help cover any extra costs you have incurred, such as the cost of home adaptations, medical equipment or adapting your vehicle.

The Medical Negligence Experts work with specialist legal firms that are experienced in handling medical negligence cases, including complications at birth and new-born death cases.

Midwife negligence and birth injury cases can be difficult to prove, especially if the mother or baby’s recovery is ongoing and the long-term effects of their injury are unknown. The sooner you start the claim process though, the easier it will be to obtain the necessary evidence to prove the injury was sustained due to negligence, making your chances of success greater.

If you have any concerns about the standard of medical care you have received or any injuries or illnesses you feel you may have gotten as a result and would like some advice to see if you have a case, do not hesitate to contact The Medical Negligence Experts via the contact form on our website or by calling 0161 413 8761.