We investigated a clinical negligence claim on behalf of a client following the death of his wife, which, he alleged, was as a consequence of the Healthcare Trust's failure to adequately treat her which, in turn, led to her premature death.

Before commencing an action against the Healthcare Trust, our client had received a report from the Health Service Commissioner which identified shortfalls and made recommendations for improvement.

Having obtained medical evidence, we did have a potential difficulty in establishing a causal link between the fatal outcome and the alleged deficits. However, having contacted the Defendant Healthcare Trust, we were able to successfully negotiate settlement. Our client received the statutory bereavement award which was, at that time, £7,500 (the statutory bereavement award is now £10,000). In addition, he received a further £2,500 to cover expenses such as the cost of the funeral.