The UK's Biggest Medical Negligence Payouts

In 2018, NHS England had a budget of about £115 billion, and around £2.4 billion (2% of the budget) was set aside for medical negligence claims. This amount has been increasing every year to deal with more claims. The rise in claims has also led to larger settlements, creating important benchmarks for compensation.

Big Case: Largest Medical Compensation Claim in the UK

In 2020, a significant case showed the effects of not following proper maternity procedures during childbirth. The mistakes caused severe brain damage to the baby. Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust admitted they didn't notice the baby's breech position on time, leading to a delay in getting enough oxygen and severe brain damage.

The parents filed a claim against the maternity staff's mistakes, and they received a substantial settlement of £37 million. This money covers the child's medical and caregiving needs for life, including having permanent caregivers day and night. Maternity-related claims, which make up 10% of total claims, have half of the total value, showing the lasting impact and higher compensation for birth-related negligence.

Maternity Mishap Results in Millions in Compensation

The second-highest compensation awarded against the NHS was £27 million in 2018. Similar to the previous case, mistakes during childbirth caused severe brain damage due to lack of oxygen. The child now has lasting mental and physical issues that could have been prevented with better care.

The family sued the NHS for negligence, and they got a lump sum along with yearly payments to help with the child's changing needs. Making a claim for medical negligence against the NHS can be tricky, but our guide on medical negligence claims can provide more information.

Clinician's Mistake Leads to £24 Million Lawsuit

In 2010, Great Ormond Street Hospital had to pay £24.2 million after a clinician accidentally injected glue instead of medical dye into a ten-year-old girl. This mistake caused severe and permanent brain damage, along with blindness in one eye and limited body movement. The family filed a lawsuit against the NHS, receiving an initial £2.8 million and yearly payments of £383,000 until the age of 19. After that, the payments would go up to £423,000 until her passing. The total compensation from this case, estimated at around £24 million if she lives into her mid-60s, shows the serious impact of medical negligence on a patient's life.

Can I make a claim?

To begin, just fill in the form on our website and you will be contacted by a professional. You can ask questions, and they'll check if you have a case by asking about your injury. But don't worry, they'll only ask what's needed for your claim.

If the adviser thinks you can make a claim, they'll connect you with the right medical negligence solicitor. The solicitor will chat with you for free to make sure you're comfortable before moving forward.