Seven figure settlement secured for child with severe cerebral palsy following birth injury

Our client, Annie, sustained catastrophic brain damage due to a prolonged period of hypoxia (low levels of oxygen) before birth. As a result, she has GMFCS Level V bilateral dyskinetic cerebral palsy – the most severe classification of motor impairment. 

This means she has poor head control, an unsafe swallow, is registered blind, is gastrostomy-fed, and has a colostomy. She experiences recurrent chest and urinary tract infections and has had episodes of respiratory arrest. Annie has global developmental delay with profound learning difficulties. She is non-verbal, with only a limited ability to express her preferences.

Her injuries mean she will never have mental capacity or be able to work, and she has a significantly reduced life expectancy of approximately 25.5 years. 

Her parents contacted us to seek answers and make sure she could receive the specialist support she will rely on for the rest of her life.

Judgment was entered for the claimant for 50% of damages, and we undertook extensive work to value the claim. This involved expert evidence from a:

• Consultant Paediatric Neurologist
• Orthopaedic Consultant
• Physiotherapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Educational Psychologist
• Care and Case Management expert
• Speech and Language Therapist
• Accommodation specialist
• Court of Protection expert

This detailed evidence enabled us to build a full picture of the care, equipment, therapies, housing adaptations and support Annie will require throughout her life.

For the family, the settlement brings stability, relief and the ability to plan for a future with dedicated professional support. This will replace the family care they have relied upon to this point, improving the quality of life for both Annie and her family.

The settlement will allow them to purchase and adapt a suitable home that meets Annie’s complex medical needs, employ a full care team, and provide essential therapies and equipment. It will also fund specialist education and sensory resources to maximise Annie’s development and comfort.