The journal Lancet Oncology last week predicted that delays in treatment since Covid in March could lead to 3,500 avoidable cancer deaths in England in the next five years. Mary Smith, an expert in clinical negligence claims based in Bristol, stated that the NHS was struggling to meet service demand before the pandemic took place with a waiting list amounting to 4 million.

In an attempt to encourage positive behaviours in clinical negligence litigation, NHS Resolution, the Society of Clinical Injury Lawyers and patient safety charity Action against Medical Accidents have all collaborated on the Covid-19 Clinical Negligence Protocol 2020.

Following on from the 2019/20 annual report from NHS Resolution, which covers up to 31 March, we have seen Claimant legal costs for clinical negligence cases rise by 12.5% over the last year. But these have also risen for Defendants. This rise is partially down to newly recognised GP indemnity arrangements but also an increase in interim payments.

At a time when lockdown is over and restrictions are relaxing we now ask, what is the impact of this pandemic on clinical negligence claims across England and Wales? A QC Mr Nigel Poole has voiced his opinion on this matter and suggested that ‘context is all’ for example our present context will be of great significance when the Courts weigh up whether a Trust or Professional has acted negligently during the pandemic.

​A police inquiry has been launched at Shrewsbury & Telford Trust following what has been coined the UK’s ‘worst baby ward scandal’. Detectives are investigating 1,250 cases dating back to the 1970s, as dozens of newborns unnecessarily died or suffered brain damage.

​In the unprecedented times in which we find ourselves we must spare a thought for those residing and working in residential care.

The COVID-19 outbreak has raised numerous challenges globally, leading to countless difficult decisions being made that affect us all.

World Parkinson’s Day 2020 falls on the 11th April 2020 and this year the focus is all about getting to know people with Parkinson’s and the people in their lives.