Clinical negligence expert

Law firm Irwin Mitchell have strengthened their clinical negligence department with the appointment of a medical researcher.

Michelle Thomson, from Cramlington, who previously worked at Wansbeck General Hospital in Ashington as theatre sister, will be putting her ten years of nursing experience to good use.

In her new position, she will be responsible for collecting medical information for clients who are pursuing clinical negligence claims. This will involve meeting with clients, assessing their conditions and gathering evidence as well as requesting clinical experts to write reports for trial.

In February, Michelle completed her degree in Nursing Practice Development in which she carried out research on infection control for her final year project.

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Michelle said: "I really enjoyed the research part of my degree which led me to apply for this position. I always had an interest in law and to mix my two favourite career aspirations is my ideal job. I'm happy as I still get to use my nursing skills when I meet with clients to find out their problems.

"My new role is immensely interesting and diverse. There are so many opportunities to learn and I now have a much wider knowledge of nursing and medical issues.

"Clinical negligence work covers such a broad range of areas such as orthopaedics, paediatrics, obstetrics, cardio thoracic, and dentistry."

Out of work and on the football pitch, Michelle plays in defence in the Northumberland and Durham Development Football League.

Self declared footie daft Michelle, a season ticket holder at Newcastle United, also hopes to start playing for the Irwin Mitchell football team.

Angela Curran, Head of Clinical Negligence at Irwin Mitchells Newcastle office, said: "Michelle is such a valuable asset to the department. Apart from her vast medical experience, she is extremely well qualified and has already risen through the ranks, she has fitted in amazingly."

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