Two siblings who suffered brain damage during their birth have been received multimillion-pound compensation in “unprecedented” medical negligence cases.
23-year-old Natasha Jackson has received £7million after mistakes at Preston’s Sharoe Green hospital, resulted in her developing cerebral palsy.
The case follows a £6million pay-out in 2010 for her 22-year-old brother Patrick, who also has the condition.
The NHS Litigation Authority said that the compensation amounts received would fund their care.
Legal action was brought against the North West Strategic Health Authority, which is no longer in operation but was responsible for Sharoe Green at the time.
Natasha and Patrick were both left severely disabled following errors in their deliveries at the hospital, which closed its doors in 2004.
Their mother, Paula McKay, from Leyland, Lancashire, has fought lengthy legal battles to secure the compensation for her children, who rely on specialised accommodation and equipment.
Ms McKay said it was “devastating” when she was told that her daughter had cerebral palsy soon after she was born. And after her son was diagnosed with the condition too, she said it “ripped her heart out”.
“The first time was bad enough but we were absolutely devastated for it to happen a second time,” she said.
Adding that the settlements had reassured her that both children would be taken care of after she died, she said: “I was desperate not to see them end up reliant on social services care in a home that was not appropriate for them.
“The money is all budgeted into different pots – transport, staff, training, accommodation and holidays for Natasha and Patrick,” she said.
The NHS Litigation Authority commented: “Compensation has been agreed with the family, which will assist in meeting the claimant’s current and future care needs for life.”
If you or your loved one has suffered as a result of clinical negligence and you need legal advice, we can help you. Our clinical negligence team have vast experience in settling claims for victims of clinical negligence and we understand that this will be a very difficult time for you and your family. To speak to one of our team today, please call 0800 999 1875 or visit our dedicated website www.medicalnegligence-solicitors.com for more information.