We can help you claim
compensation following an accident
illness or injury - nationwide
Call: 0800 10 757 95
The health professionals who assist mothers are all highly trained and the vast majority carry out their work to the highest standards, occasionally, however, for reasons beyond their control, a birth accident can occur.
In the UK where most births take place in hospital maternity units, there is a well-proven routine of ante-natal checks, preparation for admission, facilities for emergency treatment, such as a caesarean section if necessary for the welfare of mother or baby, and post-natal care before the new-born child leaves for home.
It may be that the regimentation of the system can be at fault when a birth injury to a baby occurs because staff do not always recognise an unusual situation requiring medical intervention or there are insufficient skilled nurses, midwives or doctors available to carry out a procedure.
A shortage of qualified midwives is especially critical because these dedicated specialist nurses are best placed to monitor and care for a mother about to give birth and, through their training and experience, often are the first to suspect a potential problem which, with swift treatment, can be resolved to result in the least harm to the woman and child.
There are a variety of ways to become a midwife, with candidates able to start initial training straight from school or other employment. Alternatively, qualified nurses may take a shortened course of training.
A minimum of three years' study and practical work is needed for a midwife to gain a degree, although this time will be reduced for a nurse or lengthened for someone wishing to study part-time. Once qualified, a midwife will be expected to attend refresher courses and keep up-to-date with technology and research developments affecting her field of work.
Midwifery is an interesting and challenging medical career but it can be very demanding in terms of stress and working hours. Regardless of the systems put in place at a maternity unit, babies are not machines and can arrive at any time of the day or night.
NHS authorities in some parts of the UK have difficulty in recruiting and retaining enough qualified midwives, especially in areas experiencing high birth rates, and this may reflect on the quality of service offered to patients.
If a birth accident should occur which possibly could have been avoided had a midwife been available to check on a mother's condition, then it may be possible for a compensation case to be brought against the hospital because of its inability to provide sufficient staff to maintain safety standards.
YouClaim solicitor for birth accident
Making a compensation claim for a birth accident can be a distressing experience and any parents who want advice on such a course of action should ensure they have instructed an experienced yet sympathetic solicitor to help them.
YouClaim can offer a panel of lawyers who fit this requirement, regardless of where you live in the UK, all of whom are monitored by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
Because it is not always easy to travel to a high street law office, they offer their skills through the internet, meaning you can communicate quickly and easily whenever it is convenient for you.
To find out about our specialist birth accident damages scheme, you can start echat with one of our helpful legal advisers or complete the claim form on this page and you will receive a call by return.
Alternatively, if you want to speak to someone now, you can call 0800 10 757 95 or the mobile-friendly number 0333 240 0871.
