Hertfordshire hospital meningitis error leads to payout
A 15-year-old girl who was treated at a Hertfordshire hospital for meningitis as a baby has won a multi-million pound compensation claim.
Lauren Ansell, who now lives in Yorkshire, was taken to Hemel Hempstead Hospital aged eight months.
Staff failed to identify her condition and did not give her the antibiotics she needed in time. She was left deaf and with learning difficulties.
The hospital accepted 95% liability and apologised at London's High Court.
Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust said: "We are pleased that we have reached a settlement that has been approved by the court.
'Sympathy for tragedy'
"We hope that this will ensure Lauren has the best possible care in the future and we wish her all the best."
David Evans QC, defending the trust, said: "We are sorry that Lauren didn't receive the treatment she was entitled to expect.
"We are glad to have come to terms without the need for a trial."
The amount of damages is yet to be assessed but Ms Ansell will get a lump sum and annual payments to provide the care and assistance she will need for the rest of her life. It is thought it will will amount to several million pounds.
Mr Justice Tugendhat approved the settlement and said: "I hope matters can now finally be resolved, and I wish the family well and express my sympathy for this tragedy."