What are the first signs of male breast cancer?
When we think of breast cancer, most of us imagine it as a women’s health issue. Yet around 1% of breast cancer diagnoses each year are in men – that’s roughly 390–400 men in the UK annually. While the number seems small, the impact is very real. What’s more concerning is that the number of […]
Tina Ashley appointed Head of Bristol’s Clinical Negligence team
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Tina Ashley as Head of Davies and Partners’ Bristol Clinical Negligence team. Tina joined Davies and Partners with extensive experience in clinical negligence, having qualified as a solicitor in 2009. Since then, she has built an impressive career dedicated to representing clients in complex and sensitive cases. […]
Aisha – baby loss
The loss no parent should face Aisha was overjoyed to be expecting her first child. She had a long-standing diagnosis of chronic hypertension, which meant her pregnancy was considered high risk from the outset. Chronic high blood pressure can affect the placenta and restrict the baby’s growth, so Aisha was placed under the care of […]
Surgical negligence after an appendectomy
Background In 2020, Sally, a woman in her twenties with a young child, was admitted to hospital with severe abdominal pain. She was diagnosed with suspected appendicitis and underwent surgery that same evening. At the time, Sally was working full-time and had recently begun training to become a teacher—a career path she was passionate about […]
Delayed diagnosis of a shunt dysfunction in hydrocephalus
Background to Emma’s hydrocephalus claimEmma was diagnosed with hydrocephalus in 2000. Hydrocephalus is a condition where extra fluid builds up inside the skull, which can increase pressure on the brain. To treat this, Emma had a shunt fitted – a thin, flexible tube that diverts extra brain fluid away from the skull so the body […]
What is the rapid review of maternity care, and what does it mean for parents?
A new national ‘rapid review’ into maternity care The Government has launched an independent investigation into maternity and newborn services in England. This follows long-standing concerns about safety and culture in some NHS maternity units. The review will focus on 14 hospital trusts and will prioritise the voices of families who have experienced harm. Its […]
What are the most common types of clinical negligence claims?
What are the most common types of clinical negligence claims? Understanding the most frequent types of clinical negligence (AKA medical negligence) claims can empower patients and families to identify when something may have gone wrong in their care. Recognising these issues early – such as incorrect treatment, surgical error, or misdiagnosis – can be crucial […]
Can you recover from an acquired brain injury?
Acquired brain injuries (ABIs) are among the most serious and life-changing injuries we see in our clinical negligence practice. Unlike congenital conditions present from birth, ABIs occur later in life as a result of trauma, illness, or medical mistakes. They can be caused by accidents, strokes, infections, or negligent medical treatment. One of the most […]
Red flag symptoms: When should a referral be urgent?
In clinical care across England and Wales, “red flag” symptoms are warning signs that may suggest a potentially serious or even life-threatening condition. Recognising these symptoms and arranging an appropriate referral quickly can make all the difference. National guidelines, particularly those from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), outline when a referral […]
Can you settle a medical negligence claim early?
Navigating the litigation process is no easy feat – pre-action steps, starting court proceedings and the possibility of trial can feel overwhelming as a client. In addition to this, clinical negligence claims can take many years to reach a conclusion and are likely to be playing out alongside having to manage a new and challenging […]
When the NHS admits liability: What it means for you and your family
When you’re going through the difficult process of a medical negligence claim, hearing that the NHS has admitted liability can feel like a major turning point – and it is. But what does that actually mean for you and your family? What happens next? And how should you prepare for the road ahead? Let’s take […]
Surgeon struck off for unnecessary operations: A stark reminder of the importance of consent
Surgeon Tony Dixon has been permanently removed from the UK medical register after performing unnecessary bowel operations on more than 200 patients. Many were left in long-term pain, with investigations concluding that surgeries were carried out without proper justification – and, crucially, without informed consent. Read the full story in this BBC article: Bristol surgeon […]