20.06.18
NHS trust to give payout in millions to teen brain-injured at birth
A girl who suffered a devastating brain injury during her birth has been awarded compensation from a major south east NHS trust.
Becky Tyler, who is now studying for her GCSEs, won the payout after mistakes made during her birth led to her umbilical cord being wrapped around her neck, forcing her to be resuscitated.
The 15-year-old from Crawley, Surrey, now has severe quadriplegic cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, and brought the damages claim to Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, arguing that the trust was aware that mistakes made during her delivery led to her being deprived of oxygen.
Judge Graham Robinson approved the settlement at the High Court yesterday and an interim award of damages was made to initially provide for Becky’s care.
Dad Steve Taylor and mother Fiona Taylor were both praised for the care shown to their daughter.
Margaret Bowron QC, representing the trust, said: "We are deeply regretful of the circumstances surrounding Becky's birth."
Bowron added Becky has had to face enormous adversity but has shown "remarkable guts" and is a "sunny, smiley and resourceful girl."
Becky's solicitor Jane Weakley said: "Becky is an extraordinary and bright girl. She has achieved some amazing things, but she herself expresses concern about how hard her mother particularly has to work to support her.”
Weakley added that today’s decision will mean that Becky will have “the right professional support help her fulfil her potential.”
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Image Credit: Sian Harrison, PA Images