Family Ask Medical Negligence Lawyers To Investigate Boy’s Care Under East Kent Hospital University Foundation Trust

A boy left severely brain damaged following meningitis will have access to the specialist lifetime support he requires after the High Court approved a settlement. 

The child’s parents took him to William Harvey Hospital in Kent concerned their son had a headache and a high temperature. Following an assessment, they were advised to give him paracetamol and fluids and discharged. 

Boy diagnosed with meningitis

They returned to hospital the following day. The boy was admitted, and following tests, he was diagnosed with meningitis. 

The boy spent two months in hospital. He suffered a serious brain injury as a result of meningitis. 

His family instructed expert medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate and help him access the lifetime specialist care, support and therapies he requires. 

East Kent Hospitals Trust reach liability agreement

The family’s legal team and East Kent Hospital University Foundation Trust, which runs William Harvey Hospital, reached an agreement on liability. 

A settlement has today been approved by the High Court. 

The boy lacks capacity. He has mobility and behavioural problems and is deaf. He is expected to need assistance for the rest of his life. He cannot be named for legal reasons. 

Expert Opinion

“Sadly, through our work we often see the devastating consequences that families can be left to face as a result of meningitis.

“This is a tragic case in which there are no winners. While our client has received truly remarkable care from his family, this settlement - which has been carefully calculated and approved by the High Court - means he can now receive the lifetime care and support he requires because of his complex needs.

“While the family would rather not be in this position, we hope that today offers the family some closure and allows them to now focus on the future, with the case behind them.” Richard Kayser

Family's relief after legal case settles

The boy’s mum said: “Despite everything that’s happened my son is the most adorable person. He shows great bravery each day and tries not be defined by his condition. 

“While the last few years have been extremely hard for us all as a family, we try to lead as normal a life as possible and try and do the things any family would enjoy.

“Nothing can make up for what has happened but I’m relieved that my son is now guaranteed to receive the lifetime of care that he so desperately needed. It gives us the peace of mind that funds are available to help provide for the additional needs.

“We just hope that no other family has to go through the suffering we have been through.”

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting families affected by serious conditions such as meningitis at our dedicated medical negligence section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.