The BBC reports that one in five child deaths in England could be prevented.
According to The Lancet around 5,000 children die each year, with 15 to 17 year-olds having the highest proportion of preventable deaths from suicide, accidents, abuse and neglect.
The University of Warwick researchers concluded that more could be done to cut future deaths by tackling child poverty and spotting serious illnesses sooner.
This is extremely worrying news and it is hard to accept that more cannot be done in 21st century Britain to reduce preventable child deaths.
Whilst the BBC’s article highlights a number of factors which make up these statistics, It is a fact that a large proportion of medical negligence claims involve children and these are often the cases attracting the biggest pay-outs. Such cases are usually due to injuries sustained at birth, but can also include cases of misdiagnosis which can lead to severe and catastrophic brain injury.
One of our specialist medical negligence lawyers, Oliver Thorne comments:
‘These figures are of concern. In my line of work, in the last 3 years, a high percentage of the cases I have dealt with have involved children. Sadly 3 cases in the last 18 months alone have involved babies who have died unnecessarily. The statistics reflect our own experiences and are deeply worrying.’
A link to the BBC’s article can be found here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-29062640
Oliver is an experienced medical negligence lawyer. Should you wish to contact Oliver to discuss a potential claim without charge or obligation then please call 0333 888 0412 or email him direct at [email protected]
What our clients say about us
We have over 1,200 reviews and an overall five-star rating on the independent legal review website, ReviewSolicitors.
Here is just a short selection of some of the reviews that our clients have left for our clinical negligence team:
Maddy Lawrence
“With the premature death of our eldest daughter, as it turned out, by clinical negligence, we were facing a very difficult journey both in proving fault and keeping heart and soul together. That we were able to, in terms of the fault element, was down to our professional legal team. They provided clear, calm and compassionate advice which got us through a horrendous inquest and subsequent legal maneuverers. They, in short, were magnificent and we are extremely grateful that we had them on our side.”
Great firm!
“I had an experience with Oliver Thorne who was nothing but helpful with settling my claim. He was very patient and professional as well as making sure I was happy and content throughout the whole process! Would highly recommend him if you’re looking for a solicitor!”
Compassionate, thorough, and outstanding legal support thus far
”Jade was incredibly friendly, taking the time to ask all the right questions and thoroughly investigate our case. Unlike previous solicitors, who dismissed us, Jade and the team at Slee Blackwell delved deeper and gave us renewed hope. We are extremely grateful for the dedication and professionalism in fighting for us. I would recommend Slee Blackwell to anyone in need of legal assistance.”
Mesh claim
“I cannot thank the team enough there understanding and empathy and the knowledge is outstanding. Caroline has been supportive every step of the way, she has informed me and kept me updated how the claim has progressed she has also had great understanding around my mental health and the physical damage I have occurred. I cannot thank the team enough. The team made this experience easier for me to deal with my emotional distress and pain.”
Thank you
“On behalf of all of us, we would like to thank you for your guidance, professionalism, humanity and kindness you have shown us all throughout this process. You have explained everything to us in clear and concise terms throughout and we are extremely grateful. We would have no hesitation recommending you and using your services in future. Thank you.”
Exceptional Service
“I have received expert advice throughout my case, the attention to detail is second to none. Their professional outlook and relatability means that I always recommend the firm. When I was unclear of any information or possible outcomes they took the time to speak with me on a personal level, confirming our conversation through email, I feel supported and understood and most of all they are empathetic, something that is often missing from large firms.”
Friendly, professional, knowledgeable.
“Oliver assisted me in the aftermath of my father’s sudden death in hospital. He helped me to draught my initial letter of complaint to the health authority, represented me and my mother at the inquest and ultimately succeeded in bringing a successful claim. I always felt I could approach Oliver with any questions and he would explain the legal processes in an understandable way. I would not hesitate to recommend him should anyone find themselves in a similar unfortunate position.”
Excellent solicitor
“I cannot recommend this firm highly enough and especially Caroline who is professional approachable and thorough, she works tirelessly and is a real credit to the firm, you are not made to feel like just a number as with other firms, it’s a pleasure to have such an excellent solicitor to represent you when you have gone through so much she is so understanding and knowledgeable.”