A hospital trust has issued a formal apology and a £35 million settlement after an 11-year-old girl sustained permanent brain damage and was diagnosed with a range of conditions following the mishandling of the early-onset group B Strep (GBS) infection.
The Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust acknowledged responsibility for the inadequate administration of antibiotics, a failure that led to the child’s irreversible brain damage and subsequent diagnoses of cerebral palsy, global developmental delay, and severe sight impairment.
In response to the settlement, a spokesperson for the trust expressed regret, stating, “We recognize the distress and trauma experienced by the family. While our policy mandates the distribution of Group B Streptococcus information leaflets to all expectant mothers, we acknowledge that this protocol may not be consistently followed. However, symptomatic women do receive the essential leaflet.”
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The parents of the child shared their arduous journey throughout the legal process, emphasizing the emotional and financial strain they endured while caring for their daughter due to the profound impact of the GBS infection. They emphasized their gratitude for her survival while lamenting the life she could have led and the experiences she will never have.
The Chief Executive and Co-Founder of Group B Strep Support (GBSS), Jane Plumb MBE, expressed deep sorrow over the case, highlighting the critical need for prompt action on known risk factors for GBS infections in babies and the significance of timely diagnosis and treatment.
Echoing this sentiment, Simon Mansfield, Partner and Solicitor at Tozers Solicitors LLP, labeled the case as an absolute tragedy and praised the child’s family for their unwavering support and dedication.
Luisa Goddard, Chief Nurse, reiterated the hospital’s formal apology to the family for the distress during birth and subsequent years, emphasizing the hope that the settlement will support the ongoing care needs of the child.
In light of this devastating case, it is imperative for all healthcare institutions to prioritize the adherence to established guidelines for GBS care, ensuring timely interventions and reducing the risk of preventable GBS infections in infants.