Birth injuries and the cost of caring for a disabled child

Much has been written about the exorbitant cost of raising a child in 21st century Britain, with most estimates putting the total average outgoings at around £200,000 from age of nought to 21. However, what is much less discussed is the even greater cost of raising a child with a disability. Most experts agree that the cost of raising a child who is disabled because of either a birth injury or congenital condition at around three times this.

Parents living in expensive areas in the south of the UK such as London, can expect an weightier financial burden, with the cost believed to be around 50% more.

Every day in the UK, approximately 75 children are born with some form of disability attributable to either a congenital defect or a birth injury. Medical advances in spotting and treating neonatal abnormalities actually mean that there are more disabled children in the UK than ever before, with the number currently standing at around 800,000.

What is particularly hard for families with disabled children is that these kids have exactly the same needs as non-disabled children. Whether it is learning, having a good time, hanging out with friends, playing sport or going on holiday, a disabled child is entitled to as much opportunity as possible.

For children who have developed their disability as a result of substandard of negligent care at their birth, claiming birth injury compensation is one of the most important ways of ensuring they receive every possible advantage for living a full, normal and independent life.

Of course, every disabled child will have very individual circumstances relating to their emotional, physical, educational and care needs. Receiving appropriate compensation will also go some way to ensuring the satisfaction of these needs is attainable. Finding suitable care, equipment and accommodation all form part of this vital process.

A simple look at the statistics shows us just how important it is that, where possible, compensation covers these costs. It has been calculated that the parents of a disabled child will, on average, make around 20 visits to clinics or hospitals each year. Such commitments take an inevitable toll on a parent's time and finances.

It has been calculated that 55% of all parents with a disabled child live on the margins of poverty, while 84% find themselves in debt. This situation is little helped by the fact that the UK has the highest childcare costs in all of Europe, meaning that, where a parent is eligible, claiming birth injury compensation to meet these costs should be considered an absolute imperative.

UK-leading medical negligence solicitors
YouClaim's medical negligence solicitors have an exemplary record of sensitivity and success when it comes to resolving litigation involving obstetric and maternity staff negligence.

We never charge any legal costs or fees and our no-cut commitment means that all our successful clients receive 100% compensation.

The fact that all our panel firms are governed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority is just one of the many reasons why we ensure the very best industry and ethical standards.

If you would like to find out more about how we can give you the best chance of making a successful birth injury claim, fill out an online claim form, request a callback, have an echat, or call us now on 0800 10 757 95.