Medical Negligence Archives

Ovarian cancer and medical negligence: Understanding symptoms, diagnosis, and your legal rights

Posted on 25 February 202523 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the ovaries. The cells can grow into surrounding tissues or organs. There are different types of ovarian cancer, and the type you have depends on the type of cell it starts in.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer

Symptoms of ovarian cancer can often be mistaken for symptoms of other conditions. Common symptoms include:

bloating
pelvic pain
menstrual irregularities
feeling full quickly / loss of appetite
frequent urination.

Other symptoms can include changes in bowel habit, unexplained weight loss and fatigue.

Causes and risk factors

Risk factors can include age (the risk is greatest in those aged 75 and 79), inherited genes, previous cancer (such as a history of breast cancer), being overweight, having a family history of ovarian cancer, using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and certain conditions such as diabetes or endometriosis.

Diagnosis of ovarian cancer

There are 7,500 new cases of ovarian cancer in the UK every year.

According to Cancer Research UK, one in 56 females in the UK will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in their lifetime, and 11% of ovarian cancer cases are preventable.

Importance of timely detection

Around 95% of those diagnosed with ovarian cancer at stage 1 (between 2016 and 2020) survive five years or more, compared to just 15% of those surviving five 5 years or more when diagnosed at stage IV. (Early Diagnosis Hub (shinyapps.io))

This means a timely diagnosis of ovarian cancer is crucial – it directly impacts the chances of successful treatment, survival rates and overall prognosis.

Challenges in early diagnosis

Because the symptoms of ovarian cancer are non-specific and can often be mistaken for symptoms of other conditions (such as gastrointestinal issues), ovarian cancer can go undetected for years.

The NICE Guidance on Ovarian Cancer, Recognition and Initial Management aims to enable earlier detection of ovarian cancer and improve initial treatment.

Diagnostic procedures and tests

If a doctor suspects ovarian cancer, they should do a pelvic examination and order blood tests (called a CA125 test). They may also order imaging, such as an ultrasound of the abdomen and pelvis.

If, after these initial tests, the doctor remains concerned about ovarian cancer, they will refer you to a hospital for further investigation using a suspected cancer pathway referral.

Further imaging may be done (for example, a CT scan) and a needle or surgical biopsy may also be taken to confirm (or exclude) the diagnosis, determine the type or assess the staging of the cancer.

Pap smears do not screen or diagnose ovarian cancer. MRI scans are also not routinely used for assessing women with suspected ovarian cancer.

Medical negligence in ovarian cancer cases

Common examples of medical negligence in ovarian cancer cases can include:

Delayed diagnosis. This could occur if:

There is a failure to monitor high-risk patients
Symptoms consistent with ovarian cancer are ignored
Blood tests or scans are not requested when symptoms indicate possible ovarian cancer
Test or scan results are misinterpreted
Test results or abnormal findings are not followed up or communicated

A delayed diagnosis can mean that the disease spreads to other parts of your body, making it more difficult to treat; you require different or more treatment; and/or that your prognosis is poorer.

Surgical errors or mismanagement, such as:

incomplete tumour removal
accidental damage to the bladder, bowel or ureters
wrong procedure

Ovarian cancer misdiagnosis leading to the wrong treatment

This could occur if a patient is incorrectly diagnosed with another condition (e.g. ovarian cysts) and is given the wrong treatment, such as hormonal therapy rather than cancer treatment.

Making a claim for ovarian misdiagnosis

Eligibility for making a claim

Medical negligence occurs when a patient suffers harm or injury as a result of substandard care in a healthcare setting.

Medical negligence claims have strict time limits. If your case relates to a delayed diagnosis or ovarian cancer misdiagnosis, this is 3 three years from when you were informed of the correct diagnosis. If your case relates to errors relating to treatment, this is likely to be 3 three years from the date of the error.

Steps involved in the claims process

Medical negligence claims are technical and complex – that is why you should seek advice from a specialist medical negligence lawyer. It will be almost impossible to navigate the process on your own.

If you would like to understand more, read here: “Bringing a medical negligence claim”

Compensation

Claiming compensation can help provide the help and support that you need.

The amount of compensation you can obtain can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances of your case.

As well as receiving compensation for the physical and psychological consequences of any negligence, you will be able to recover specific financial losses incurred as a result of the negligence. This could include loss of earnings, care, medical treatment and other miscellaneous costs resulting from the negligence.

Seeking support for a medical negligence claim is a significant and often challenging step. That is why we are here to listen to you and talk through what happened, and to help and guide you every step of the way.

The link between Covid-19 and Sepsis

Posted on 22 January 202524 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

It is well known that Covid-19 can severely compromise the respiratory system, with many people going on to develop pneumonia to a greater or lesser extent – although all other organ systems are at risk of damage from the disease.

A recent study has now confirmed that nearly a third of UK Coronavirus patients were readmitted to hospital within 140 days due to the patient developing sepsis. Some patients will go on to die from sepsis and its complications. It is therefore vital to know and recognise the early signs of sepsis and ensure treatment is prompt when diagnosed and avoid the need to seek legal advice.

Janine Collier, Partner and Head of Tees’ Medical Negligence team, comments: “Like many illnesses, this study suggests that Covid-19 carries a risk of adverse events particularly for those who recently survived severe Coronavirus . The key thing is for patients to be aware of this risk and watch for signs of any “new” conditions which may be indicate of, for example diabetes; kidney, liver or cardiovascular disease (e.g high blood pressure, heart attack or stroke); or a new infection or sepsis. Early intervention and treatment can help to manage these conditions and to avoid progression to more severe and serious illness such as sepsis, stroke and heart attack. Patients should seek medical help if they have any concerns at all – don’t wait.”

If you or a loved one has suffered from sepsis and you are worried about standards of care, we can help. Our specialist sepsis negligence claims solicitors understand what you’re going through, and we can help you get answers about your care. We’ll listen to your experiences, and help you find out what happened throughout your treatment.

Sepsis must be diagnosed and treated quickly. Any delay or problems with treatment could have serious implications – so doctors should recognise the warning signs of sepsis and offer the right treatment. Professional guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of sepsis are very clear, but mistakes during treatment can and do happen. Unfortunately, medical errors can have serious and devastating consequences for patients and their families. Sepsis negligence claims normally focus on either a:

Delayed diagnosis of sepsis – you might have a claim if your doctor didn’t spot the signs of sepsis early enough and this made your condition worse
Misdiagnosis of sepsis – you might have a claim if your doctor misinterpreted your symptoms, and this caused a delay in your treatment which made your condition worse.

Read on to learn more about the signs of sepsis in children and adults, including common symptoms and causes which may result from medical negligence.

What is sepsis?

Sepsis is a potentially fatal abnormal immune response to an infection. It can cause:

Organ failure
Tissue damage (which can lead to amputation)
Death.

Can sepsis be treated and cured?

Sepsis can progress very quickly and requires immediate medical treatment. If diagnosed promptly it can be treated with antibiotics.

Your immune system normally keeps you safe from infections. In cases of sepsis, the immune system is overwhelmed and begins to attack the body. Sepsis can cause inflammation and septic shock (dangerously low blood pressure). Inflammation can cause damage throughout your body – including damage to your organs, soft tissue and limbs.

Tragically, 5 people die as a result of sepsis every hour in the UK. One in four of all sepsis survivors suffer permanent, life-changing effects (such as the loss of a limb). So, it’s important to be familiar with the common causes and signs of sepsis – it could help save your life.

Is sepsis the same as blood poisoning?

Sepsis is sometimes referred to as ‘blood poisoning’. However, sepsis and blood poisoning are different medical conditions. Blood poisoning is when bacteria infect your bloodstream, sepsis is when your immune system overreacts to an infection.

What is the most common cause of sepsis?

Sepsis is caused by an abnormal response to any kind of infection. Common causes of infections which can trigger sepsis include:

Viral illness – such as a fever, cough or cold
Bacterial infection – this could set in after a physical injury or surgery
Fungal infection – such as a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Anyone can get sepsis, but it’s more common in young children, the elderly or people who have an existing problem with their immune system (‘immunocompromised’). People receiving anticancer treatments may be at risk of developing sepsis (‘neutropenic sepsis’) if they suffer an infection during their treatment, because of their weakened immune system.

What are the first signs of sepsis?

Identifying sepsis at an early stage, and getting the right medical treatment, can help prevent it from becoming life-threatening. Every case of sepsis is different, but there are some common symptoms to look out for.

Early signs of sepsis in children

Children and babies may be at particular risk of sepsis if they have a fever (or have had one in the last 24 hours), or have a very low (less than 36C) or very high temperature.

Symptoms of sepsis in children include:

breathing very fast and/or a very fast heartbeat
fits or convulsions
mottled, bluish or pale skin
a rash which does not fade when pressed
very low energy or difficult to wake
lack of interest in anything
feeling abnormally cold to the touch.

Symptoms of sepsis in children under five years include:

not interested in feeding
has not wanted a drink for 8 hours or more
difficulty breathing – may make ‘grunting’ noises
is floppy
vomiting repeatedly
hasn’t had a wee/wet nappy for 12 hours.

If your child is poorly, and has a fever (or has had one in the last 24 hours) or low temperature, The Sepsis Trust UK advises parents to call 999 and ask: could it be sepsis?

Symptoms of sepsis in the elderly

Symptoms of sepsis in adults and the elderly include:

slurred speech
confusion
severe shivering or muscle pain
passing no urine for a day
severe breathlessness
feeling like you’re going to die
fast heartbeat and/or fast breathing
an abnormally high or low temperature
mottled or discoloured skin.

Having just one, or more, of these symptoms could be a sign of sepsis. The NHS has published a useful list of symptoms of sepsis in babies, children, adults and the elderly.

What are the early signs of septic shock?

Septic shock is a particularly severe form of sepsis which causes dangerously low blood pressure. Symptoms of septic shock include:

feeling dizzy, nauseous or faint
losing consciousness (fainting)
diarrhoea
vomiting
cold, clammy or mottled skin.

NHS Trust death: Inquest into St Albans woman’s empty oxygen cylinder

Posted on 21 January 202527 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

An inquest into the death of a woman under the care of West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust began on Monday 20 January.

Incident overview

Cecilia Harper (71) died in Watford General Hospital on 9 February 2022, while being transported from her ward to the radiology department. She had been admitted to the hospital five days earlier.

Circumstances leading to her Death

The mother-of-two had reported breathlessness while in hospital, after initially being provided with oxygen via nasal cannula, her oxygen dependency increased and Cecilia was provided with an non-rebreather oxygen mask for the journey and was accompanied by a porter and student nurse. She was conscious when she left the ward, yet by the time she arrived in the ultrasound room she had lost consciousness. A number of medical staff undertook CPR but Cecilia had sadly died.

Investigation findings

Upon investigation, it was discovered that Cecilia’s oxygen cylinder was empty, it was not clear when this occurred. During the first day of the inquest, it was heard that research carried out by a doctor at the Trust indicated that 10% of patients transferred to the A&E CT department have insufficient oxygen for a return journey, while 9% of patients made the journey with oxygen cylinders switched off.

However, a post-mortem report, which identified metastatic breast carcinoma as the cause of death, made no mention of the impact of the empty oxygen cylinder or oxygen dependency.

The inquest proceedings

An inquest took place at the Coroner’s Office for the Area of Hertfordshire to determine the cause of Cecilia’s death. There have been two previous inquest review hearings to ensure all appropriate evidence has been sought, which has delayed proceedings.

The inquest, which was expected to take place over three days, concluded on Tuesday (21 January). The inquest sought to confirm the exact circumstances surrounding Cecilia’s death.

The coroner determined that Mrs Harper died from natural causes, but it is unclear whether there was any problem with oxygen supply, and it is unclear if there was a problem with oxygen supply, if it contributed to her death.

There was not a determinative finding because of the contradictory evidence and lack of documentary evidence relating to the timings of when things occurred.

Concerns raised by Tees Law

Tees Law, acting for Cecilia’s family, has highlighted possible breaches in regulations by West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Hospital staff have reported different times for the length of Cecilia’s journey from her ward to the ultrasound room, however it is understood to have taken at least six minutes. Moreover, it is believed to be contrary to best practice for a porter and a trainee nurse to accompany a patient in the way Cecilia was transported. Instead, she should have been accompanied by appropriately trained professionals.

Statement from Tees Law

Sophie Stuart of Tees, acting for the family, said: “These tragic events pose many questions about the use of oxygen cylinders for patients within West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Cecilia’s family is hoping that the inquest will help shine a light on what happened to Cecilia. By highlighting any failings in her care, the family hope that the Trust will address a wider problem in order to ensure this never happens to any other patient.

It is also worth noting that NHS England issued Patient Safety Alerts in relation to oxygen cylinders in 2018 and 2023. Our concern is that despite these alerts this issue still seems to be a problem and could be affecting other patients.”

Remembering Cecilia Harper

Living in St Albans at the time of her death in her early 70s, Cecilia had many jobs throughout her life. Notably, she worked in Hong Kong, managing American expatriates in South-East Asia for the global technology firm IBM. She returned to the UK in 1983, where she lived ever since with her husband John.

Placental abruption signs: Medical negligence claims

Posted on 4 January 202523 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Understanding placental abruption: Causes, symptoms, and medical negligence claims. The placenta is the baby’s lifeline in the womb, supplying oxygen and nutrients for proper development. A placental abruption is a serious condition that can pose a significant threat to both mother and baby. In rare cases, it can lead to severe injury or even stillbirth.

If you have experienced complications related to placental abruption and believe medical negligence played a role, you may be entitled to pursue a legal claim.

What is Placental Abruption?

Placental abruption occurs when the placenta partially or completely detaches from the uterine wall before delivery. This can reduce or cut off the baby’s oxygen supply, causing serious health risks. While it is a rare complication, occurring in less than 1% of pregnancies, its consequences can be severe.

Causes and Risk Factors

Although the exact cause of placental abruption is often unknown, several factors can increase the risk:

Previous placental abruption
Abdominal trauma (e.g., car accidents, falls)
Carrying twins, triplets, or more
Pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy)
Uterine infections
Chronic hypertension
Drug use (cocaine or amphetamines)
Smoking

Even without these risk factors, placental abruption can still occur. Pregnant women with concerns should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Signs and Symptoms of Placental Abruption

The most common signs of placental abruption include:

Vaginal bleeding
Abdominal or back pain
Uterine tenderness
Frequent, painful contractions

In some cases, bleeding may be concealed, meaning blood remains trapped between the placenta and uterine wall. This type of abruption may present with severe pain but no visible bleeding.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Medical professionals typically perform:

Physical examinations
Ultrasounds
Fetal monitoring

Treatment options depend on the severity of the abruption and the stage of pregnancy. In severe cases, an emergency cesarean section may be necessary to prevent further complications.

Medical Negligence and Placental Abruption Claims

While most cases are managed effectively, medical negligence can occur if healthcare providers fail to diagnose or treat placental abruption appropriately. Examples of negligence may include:

Delayed diagnosis
Inadequate fetal monitoring
Failure to perform a timely cesarean section
Mismanagement of maternal bleeding

If you suspect medical negligence, you have the right to seek legal advice. At Tees, our experienced medical negligence solicitors can investigate your case and help you obtain the answers you deserve.

How We Can Help

Free Consultation: Discuss your experience with a qualified solicitor.
Expert Investigation: We collaborate with medical experts to assess your care.
Support and Guidance: Our compassionate team supports you every step of the way.

Contact Tees today to explore your options for a medical negligence claim.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical or legal advice. Consult your healthcare provider for medical concerns and a qualified solicitor for legal inquiries.

Expert help for your medical negligence claim

Posted on 19 December 202423 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

If you’ve been harmed by a healthcare provider, you may be considering whether you have a medical negligence (or clinical negligence) claim. The process can seem complicated, but we’re here to guide you through it every step of the way.

What is Medical Negligence?

Medical negligence happens when a healthcare professional (such as a doctor, nurse, or hospital) provides care that falls below the expected standard, and this causes harm to you. To pursue a claim, we need to prove two main things:

1. Breach of Duty of Care

This means proving that the healthcare provider didn’t meet the proper standard of care. For example, a doctor may have failed to diagnose a condition, or a hospital may have made a mistake during surgery. If it can be shown that most other healthcare professionals in the same situation would have acted differently, then this can be considered a breach.

2. Causation

Not only do we need to show that the healthcare provider was negligent, but we also need to prove that their mistake directly caused your injury. This requires strong evidence, often in the form of an independent medical opinion, to link the negligence with the harm you’ve experienced.

Time limits for filing a claim

Claims for medical negligence generally need to be made within three years of the incident happening or when you first became aware that the injury may have been caused by negligence. This is called the “date of knowledge.”

However, there are exceptions:

Children: Claims can be made on their behalf at any time until three years after their 18th birthday.
Mental Capacity: If the person affected doesn’t have mental capacity, the time limit can be extended.

What is the process for a medical negligence claim?

Once you reach out to us, we’ll start by gathering all the relevant details and medical records about your case. This helps us determine whether there’s a valid claim. We will also work with independent medical experts to review the situation and give advice on whether there was a breach of care and if your injuries were caused by it.

After this, we’ll send a formal letter of claim to the healthcare provider, outlining the issues. They then have four months to investigate and respond, either admitting or denying responsibility. If they deny it, we will continue to build the case for you.

How is a medical negligence claim valued?

We calculate the amount of compensation based on two key areas:

1. General Damages

These cover pain, suffering, and the loss of your ability to enjoy life. The amount varies depending on the severity of your injury, but we use established guidelines and case law to estimate what’s fair.

2. Special Damages

These cover your financial losses, such as:

Loss of future income
Cost of any care or assistance you need
Medical expenses
Travel costs related to treatment
Costs for private treatment, if necessary

3. Future Losses

These are any ongoing costs or income loss that you might face due to the injury, such as:

Ongoing medical treatment
Future lost earnings

How we can help you

At Tees Law, our team of legal experts are here to help you through the process of bringing a medical negligence claim. We understand how stressful it can be, and we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way.

Delayed cervical cancer diagnosis: Medical negligence insights

Posted on 16 December 202423 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

A crucial discussion for Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 2025

Cervical cancer remains a significant health concern for women worldwide, and early diagnosis and treatment are vital. Delays in diagnosis can severely impact a patient’s prognosis, leading to more extensive treatment and, tragically, increased mortality rates.

Understanding cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is a significant public health concern in the United Kingdom. Here are some key statistics regarding cervical cancer cases in the UK:

Incidence rates: Most cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed in women aged 30-45, although it can occur at any age after the onset of sexual activity.
HPV: The primary cause of cervical cancer is a virus called high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). High-risk HPV can cause changes in the cells of the cervix which, over time, can develop into cervical cancer.
Screening programme: The UK has a national cervical screening programme that invites women from ages 25 to 64 for regular screening. This has been effective in early detection and has reduced the incidence rates.
Vaccination impact: The introduction of the HPV vaccine has also played a role in reducing the number of cervical cancer cases, particularly among younger women who are vaccinated.
Annual cases: As of the most recent data, there were around 3,200 new cervical cancer cases in the UK every year, which is about nine cases diagnosed every day.
Survival rates: Survival rates for cervical cancer have increased over the past few decades due to better screening and treatment options. The five-year survival rate for women diagnosed with early-stage cervical cancer is relatively high.
Regional variation: There might be regional variations in incidence and mortality rates within the UK, with some areas having higher rates than others, often linked to socioeconomic factors and access to screening services.

Please note that these statistics can change over time, and for the most current data, you should refer to recent reports from sources like Cancer Research UK, the Office for National Statistics, or the NHS.

HPV

HPV is a common virus which most people (eight out of 10) get infected with at some point. In most people, it will go away within two years without causing any problems. There are many types of HPV and cervical cancer is linked to infection with high-risk types of HPV which do not go away on their own.

HPV does not cause any symptoms so cervical screening tests in England, Scotland and Wales look for high-risk HPV first and, if a screening sample is positive for high-risk HPV, a patient is invited back for cervical screening in one year (rather than in three years). If a patient has high-risk HPV three times in a row, they will be invited to colposcopy for more tests. If a patient has high-risk HPV plus cell changes, they will be invited to colposcopy for further tests.

A colposcopy is an examination normally done in a hospital or local clinic where a closer look is taken at the cervix and a biopsy may be taken. Depending on the results, treatment may be offered to remove the abnormal cells before they become cancerous or, if there is cancer present, further treatment will be offered, which depends on how large the cancer is and whether it has spread to anywhere else in the body.

Symptoms of cervical cancer

Symptoms can include:

Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Pelvic pain
Pain during intercourse
Unusual vaginal discharge

In the later stages of cervical cancer, symptoms can also include:

Unexplained pain in the lower back or pelvis
Unexplained weight loss

If women present with these symptoms, they should contact their GP. The symptoms may or may not be due to cervical cancer, but seeing a GP can ensure that they are thoroughly investigated.

However, for some women, cervical cancer does not cause any obvious symptoms which is why women need to attend their cervical screening tests (previously known as smear tests) when they are offered.

Importance of timely diagnosis

Diagnosis of cervical cancer can include investigations such as:

Cervical screening tests
Colposcopies
Biopsy
Scans
Hysteroscopy (looking inside the womb with a narrow telescope and camera)

Treatment options range from surgery to chemotherapy, depending on the stage of the cancer when diagnosed. Radiotherapy and brachytherapy are other treatments that can be offered.

Early detection is key to increasing survival rates and limiting the extent of treatment that a woman may need. A delayed diagnosis can allow the cancer to progress, leading to the need for more aggressive treatment and worse outcomes (such as a lower chance of recovery or increased risk of the cancer coming back).

Examples of negligence in diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer

Failure to offer cervical screening tests
Failure to refer a patient to a hospital specialist for further investigations
Misinterpretation of cervical screening results
Misreporting of colposcopy results

For instance, a GP may neglect to invite a patient for cervical screening when it is due.

Alternatively, where a patient presents with symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding (e.g. between periods or after the menopause), a GP may fail to make an appropriate referral for further investigation.

There are also cases where abnormal cervical screening test results are incorrectly reported as being normal, or colposcopy results are misreported as normal, thereby delaying the diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Proving medical negligence

All healthcare providers owe a duty of care to their patients. To establish a medical negligence claim, it needs to be shown that the healthcare provider breached their duty of care towards their patient (failed to provide an acceptable standard of care) and that the patient has suffered harm because of negligence (this is known as causation).

The harm suffered by a patient may be physical and/or psychiatric harm, and financial losses suffered because of the negligence are also recoverable as part of a medical negligence claim in addition to a sum of compensation for avoidable pain and suffering. It may also be possible to recover compensation for future financial losses that will be incurred as a result of the negligence (such as future medical treatment costs).

Cervical cancer prevention week 2025: Awareness

In 2023, Jo’s Trust launched its End Cervical Cancer campaign. NHS England has pledged to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040, but to make this happen, programmes for HPV vaccinations, cervical screening and treatment for cell changes need to be as effective and easy to access as possible.

We also consider that it is imperative to address the issue of delayed cervical cancer diagnosis due to negligence to bring about system improvements, professional training, and patient awareness.

The upcoming Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 2025 is an opportunity to unite in the fight against cervical cancer.

How Tees can help

Tees offers ‘no win, no fee’ agreements for the investigation of medical negligence claims – this means that no costs associated with a claim are payable unless a claim is successful. . If you win, most of your legal costs are paid by the Defendant. A small portion of your compensation may be used to cover legal costs not paid by the Defendant. The majority of our clients choose this option for peace of mind and affordability.

Our specialist lawyers are happy to give initial advice on a potential claim, advising you as to whether a claim is likely to succeed.

A number of our lawyers, including Natalie Pibworth, who is a senior solicitor in the medical negligence department at Tees, have experience in dealing with claims involving delayed diagnosis of cervical cancer and understand the sensitivity required when helping with such claims.

Our specialist lawyers are ready to assist you if you want further information or to discuss a potential claim.

Please note that the content of this article is for information purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.

Budget uncertainty sparks market shifts and opportunities

Posted on 21 November 202425 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

There was some uncertainty within the housing market ahead of the Autumn Budget at the end of October, which was reflected in muted consumer activity.

House price growth slowed ahead of the first Labour Budget in 14 years according to Savills. Mortgage rates rose slightly at the end of October as lenders repriced their fixed rates around the Chancellor’s announcements. However, Knight Frank do still expect house prices to increase by 3% this year.

Rachel Reeves confirmed that the lower Stamp Duty thresholds will be reinstated in April 2025, which is likely to cause a flurry of purchases in Q1 of 2025. Meanwhile, the increase in Stamp Duty on additional residential properties could reduce supply into the private rental sector.

Overall, many experts think that the Budget will cause inflation rates to be higher than initially predicted. This would lead to elevated mortgage rates, with less likelihood of strong house price growth.

Hope for the rental market?

Conditions could start improving for renters, with Savills commenting that residential rental prices may have reached an ‘affordability ceiling.’

Figures from Zoopla show that UK annual rental growth slowed to 4.3% in September – a further decline from 4.6% in August.

Plus, it seems that the Renters’ Rights Bill may not have prompted too many landlords to leave the market, with Knight Frank reporting that between January – August this year, there were 6% more new lettings listings in Prime London than the same period in 2023. This is a welcome relief, as limited supply is already an issue across the rental sector.

Commenting on the Renters’ Right Bill, Gary Hall, Head of Lettings at Knight Frank, said, “The new rules are likely to cause some logistical problems for landlords, but we are not expecting an exodus. Those who were on the fence have already left and those who stayed have benefited from strong rental value growth in recent years.”

Increase in chain-free homes for sales

Nearly a third of homes listed on Zoopla are currently chain-free.

From April 2025, homeowners and investors could be charged up to twice the amount of Council Tax on their second homes, which has prompted many to sell. In turn, there has been a 33% increase in buyer enquiries on chain-free properties.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the UK’s second home hotspots have the highest proportion of chain-free homes for sale – the North West (36.5%), Yorkshire and The Humber (35.9%) and the South West (35.9%).

Senior Property Researcher, Izabella Lubowiecka at Zoopla, commented, “Those looking at buying a home before Stamp Duty rates increase in April 2025 should think about buying a chain-free home as they tend to complete much faster. Now is a great time to look for properties, with more chain-free homes available than in previous months.”

It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this document is based on our current understanding and can be subject to change without notice and the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. It does not provide individual tailored investment advice and is for guidance only. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK. We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions it might contain. Levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are those currently applying or proposed and are subject to change; their value depends on the individual circumstances of the investor. No part of this document may be reproduced in any manner without prior permission.

All details are correct at the time of writing (20 November 2024)

Baby loss awareness week: The heartbreak of Lisa and Ryan

Posted on 4 October 202427 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Lisa Buttery (36) and fiancé Ryan Barnes (37) had always wanted to start a family, but despite years of trying, they had never been able to conceive. In November 2021, they eventually found out they were pregnant with baby Isla Grace and were overjoyed to finally become parents.

This would be their first child. They put their wedding planning on hold while they prepared for their new arrival.

“Our little miracle”

The pregnancy went smoothly, and baby Isla was growing well. Lisa was referred to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, where a plan was made for induction of labour at 42 weeks.

Following induction, Lisa’s labour progressed quickly, but baby Isla soon began to struggle. Concerns were first raised by midwives shortly after Lisa’s waters broke, as CTG’s (fetal monitoring equipment) suggested that Isla Grace was getting a limited supply of oxygen during labour. A plan was made to transfer Lisa to the delivery suite, but no beds were available at the time.

In the hours that followed, further concerns were raised by midwives, who felt that Isla’s heart rate was fluctuating dangerously. On three separate occasions, recommendations by the midwives to escalate Lisa to an emergency caesarean section were overruled. Eventually, Lisa was taken for a category two emergency caesarean section. A category two caesarean section is initiated where there is fetal or maternal compromise which is not considered life-threatening. Despite attempts at resuscitation, Isla tragically died at just 19 minutes old.

A coroner’s inquest took place in March 2023, which concluded that Isla died from hypoxic brain damage, signs of which were seen on electronic foetal monitoring (CTG recording).

The process

Lisa and Ryan approached Tees to help guide them through the inquest process and to bring a claim for compensation on behalf of Isla Grace.

Following initial investigations, Tees were able to secure a response from the hospital, who admitted that they failed to refer Lisa for an emergency caesarean section once concerns were raised around Isla’s wellbeing. They admit that, had Lisa been sent for an earlier caesarean section, then Isla would likely have survived.

A word from Lisa and Ryan

“Losing our beautiful daughter Isla Grace has forever changed us as people – it is a story we never thought imaginable, let alone something we will now have to live with for the rest of our lives. And that is exactly what it is – a life-long heart break knowing you will never feel true joy again without our first and only child in this world.

We contacted Tees to find answers and justice for Isla as both internal and external investigations didn’t reveal an underlying cause of death. We see that the only benefit that can come from this is change – change to processes, change to assumptions, change to maternity care that we hope will save the lives of thousands of babies – and our hope is that that will be Isla Grace’s legacy.”

Thank you to Lisa and Ryan for giving Tees permission to share their story on Baby Loss Awareness Week, in memory of Isla Grace.

If you are concerned about the care you or your baby received, you can talk to one of our specialists. We’ll listen to your experience and help you get to the truth of what happened.

Surgeon Yaser Jabbar: Patient ‘G’s case of Medical Negligence

Posted on 16 September 202427 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

This is the story of Patient ‘G’, a teenager whose life has been severely impacted by the substandard care and questionable practices of surgeon Mr Yaser Jabbar, who worked at the renowned Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London.

The harrowing experience of Patient ‘G’ sheds light on the systemic failures that allowed such negligent care to persist, and the fight for justice and accountability.

Yaser Jabbar’s troubled tenure at GOSH

Mr Yaser Jabbar, a 43-year-old surgeon, joined the orthopaedic department at GOSH in June 2017, quickly making a name for himself as a specialist in complex leg-straightening and lengthening procedures. Dubbed the “frame guy” by his colleagues, Jabbar became known for his work with children suffering from congenital limb deformities.

However, beneath the surface, concerns about Mr Jabbar’s practice began to emerge. Colleagues raised concerns about his “cavalier” approach to unexpected complications and his tendency to dismiss or even hide these issues, raising serious questions about patient safety under his care.

The troubling case of Patient ‘G’

Patient ‘G’ was born with VACTERL association, a genetic condition that affects the formation of the bones and organs in utero. He suffers from a radial club hand deformity with thumb hypoplasia, which affects the bones of his hand, radius and ulna. They were referred to GOSH in February 2017 at the age of nine, to explore surgical options to straighten and lengthen his left arm and wrist, with the hopes of improving the cosmetic appearance.

‘G’ was initially seen by Mr Jabbar in January 2020 and later again in February 2020 and April 2021. Unfortunately, these appointments were marked by a lack of detailed medical history-taking or clear communication about the proposed surgical plan and its risks and benefits.

The flawed surgery

In June 2021, ‘G’ underwent surgery to his left arm – but what was performed was vastly different from what had originally been planned. Instead of the agreed-upon procedure to “straighten and lengthen” the left forearm with an Ilizarov frame, Mr Jabbar performed a “length neutral (or even shortening) correction with a plate, and joint distraction. This approach was later deemed “unacceptable” following an investigation by the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) into Mr Jabbar’s practice.

The RCS report criticised Mr Jabbar’s surgical technique, noting significant under-correction of the radial inclination and the lack of a clear plan for follow-up procedures. His choices were considered highly questionable.

Complications and consequences

Following the surgery, ‘G’ faced a series of complications, including persistent pain, nerve issues and worsening deformity. ‘G’ also developed a post-operative infection, which required removal of the metal pins in his arm. These problems required multiple additional surgeries and extended treatment, including bone grafting.

The RCS investigation concluded that ‘G’ had suffered “moderate harm” due to Mr Jabbar’s actions, with the possibility of further deterioration and the need for more corrective procedures in the future. The findings also noted that Mr Jabbar failed to properly inform ‘G’ and their family about the significant changes made to the surgical plan – raising further concerns about professionalism, transparency and patient care.

The devastating impact

The consequences of Mr Jabbar’s actions have been far-reaching and deeply damaging for Patient ‘G’. Their left arm, which had previously undergone successful surgical correction at a young age, was now in a worse condition, with increased deformity, reduced function, and ongoing pain. Three years on, ‘G’ is still awaiting treatment to rectify the damage caused by Mr Jabbar. The experiences have taken a significant toll on their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Wider systemic failures at GOSH

Unfortunately, this case is not an isolated incident, but part of a larger pattern of systemic issues within GOSH’s orthopaedic department. The RCS investigation revealed a “dysfunctional” team environment, marked by poor communication, a lack of collaboration, and hostility towards staff members who raised concerns. The report also highlighted failures in the hospital’s leadership which ignored or downplayed warnings from staff, allowing Mr Jabbar’s harmful practices to go unchecked for years, ultimately leading to the harm of hundreds of young and vulnerable patients.

The aftermath and ongoing legal battle

In the wake of the RCS investigation, GOSH has launched a comprehensive review of the cases of 721 children treated by Mr Jabbar, with the hospital acknowledging the “serious concerns” raised and apologising to the affected families.

Georgina Wade, Solicitor at Tees is representing ‘G’ and his family in the pursuit of justice for the harm caused by Mr Jabbar’s negligence. Georgina is also representing a number of other families who have been affected.

The case of Patient ‘G’ and the broader issues at GOSH highlight the critical need for accountability and transparency within the medical profession. When there is a breakdown of trust, and patient safety is compromised, the consequences can be devastating – not only for the individuals and families directly affected, but also for the public’s confidence in the healthcare system.

The call for accountability and reform

This case is one of several cases which serves as a call to action – healthcare providers must prioritise patient safety, foster a culture of openness, and swiftly address shortfalls in care when they occur. Only by committing to these values, can we protect vulnerable patients like ‘G’ and begin to rebuild and restore trust in the medical profession.

Statement from solicitor Georgina Wade

Solicitor Georgina Wade said: “As the family’s solicitor I am deeply troubled by the findings of the Royal College of Surgeons into the care provided to ‘G’ by Mr Jabbar. Both ‘G’ and his family trusted him; he was someone they believed to be a respected and experienced surgeon at one of the world’s leading children’s hospitals. He abused that trust and used his position of authority to perform a totally different surgical procedure to the one which was agreed to by ‘G’ and his family.

“Beyond Mr Jabbar’s worrying practices, the fact that he was allowed to continue treating children after concerns were raised about his practice also raises questions about the conduct of Great Ormond Street. As the extent of Mr Jabbar’s worrying practices now comes to light, I am shocked to see how many vulnerable children have been affected by his behaviour. One child coming to harm is one too many. ‘G’ and his family, along with all those affected by this deserve answers and accountability, as they will have to live with the consequences of the actions of both GOSH and Mr Jabbar for the rest of their lives.”

Maternity errors result in stillbirth of couple’s first baby and significant injuries to mother

Posted on 10 September 202427 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Sarah* had a traumatic experience when she lost her baby, and suffered from severe, permanent injuries which led to her decision to leave the UK.

The induction process

Sarah was admitted to a leading NHS Hospital based in London for a planned induction of labour. She was induced in the afternoon and contractions started that same evening. However, even though Sarah was experiencing regular contractions alongside severe levels of pain and bleeding, staff at the Hospital failed to recognise that she was in active labour. That night, the baby’s heart rate was detected dropping during CTG monitoring and there were episodes of shallow decelerations, but no action was taken.

Repeated please for help

The next day, Sarah was given a full dose of gels for induction and regular contractions started during the night. Although Sarah’s husband Daniel* made repeated requests for attention over a period of several hours, no physical checks or CTG monitoring was provided. Sarah’s contractions became more regular and painful, and Daniel again repeatedly asked for help but was ignored.

Tragic loss

On the third day, Daniel once again repeatedly asked for help and for CTG monitoring and by this point, Sarah’s pain levels had become unbearable. CTG monitoring was eventually performed but staff could not detect the baby’s heartbeat. Sarah and Daniel’s baby was heartbreakingly pronounced dead.

Lack of support

Even after the death of her baby was confirmed, Sarah was not offered any consultant support or advised of any alternative options for delivery. She was then left for seven-and-a-half hours pushing on her own to deliver her baby with no physical or psychological support from staff. Sarah’s physical condition became extremely poor, and Daniel was terrified that he would lose his wife as well as his baby. The prolonged second stage of labour resulted in severe, permanent injuries to Sarah.

Emotional and psychological impact

The experience was deeply traumatic with both Sarah and Daniel suffering from significant PTSD. Due to the physical and psychological trauma sustained following the incident, Sarah and Daniel felt they had no choice but to leave their home in London and move abroad to be closer to Sarah’s family for support.

Internal investigation and admission of liability

Following the incident, an internal investigation took place by the NHS Trust involved in which it was accepted that there was a “failure to recognise the onset of active labour during a high-risk induction process, and a failure to commence appropriate care including foetal monitoring once in established labour”.

Shortly after the tragic incident, the couple in their 30s, got in touch with Alison Hills. A letter of claim was sent to the Trust, who promptly admitted liability and accepted that had active labour been diagnosed and continued foetal monitoring been performed, then the baby’s death would have been avoided.

The Trust also admitted that a senior obstetrician should have been involved and advised Sarah about her options for delivery and that if delivery had been expedited after the death of the baby had been confirmed, then Sarah would have avoided the prolonged labour and subsequent injuries.

Ongoing compensation process

An assessment of the couple’s potential lost earnings, care costs, medical expenses, relocation costs and several other expenses is currently underway before negotiations can commence and a final compensation figure can be agreed with the Trust.

Statement from Alison Hills

Tees Law’s Medical Negligence Senior Associate Solicitor Alison Hills said: “This is one of the most tragic cases that I have ever come across in my 20-year career. Not only was the death of Sarah and Daniel’s baby wholly avoidable, but there were several failures of care even after the death was confirmed, which then led to a number of significant and permanent injuries to Sarah. Their lives have simply been turned upside down with every single aspect of their lives being adversely affected.

Whilst no amount of compensation will ever bring their baby back, I am hoping that when their case settles, Sarah and Daniel will be able to achieve some form of closure and start to heal from these heartbreaking events, and that lessons will be learnt for the Trust to avoid similar mistakes being made in the future”.

*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of our clients.