Girl who suffered brain injury at birth awarded £20m in damages

The girl's parents said "whilst the compensation is significant, it is not a lottery win"

A nine-year-old girl from County Down who suffered a serious brain injury at birth is to be awarded nearly £20m in damages.

It was decided at the High Court in Belfast on Friday.

Lawyers for the child's family sued the South Eastern Health Trust over treatment during her birth in 2013.

The child, who cannot be identified, sustained a brain injury due to severe oxygen deficiency and later developed cerebral palsy.

In a statement of claim, the child's legal team said she had been incapacitated and prevented from enjoying some aspects of life.

With liability accepted by the South Eastern Trust, the case centred on the appropriate level of compensation.

A final resolution approved by Mr Justice McAlinden will include annual payments for the lifetime of the child. The estimated total value of the settlement is approximately £20m.

In a statement outside court, the girl's parents said: "We are glad the trust accepted responsibility for the failures in care and we hope that lessons have been learned from this case.

"Whilst the compensation is significant it is not a lottery win, but will simply cover what is necessary for the care and therapies required by our daughter."

The family's solicitor, Harry McAleese, added: "An interim payment had previously been made in this case which enabled the family to secure suitable accommodation to be adapted for the child's needs.

"I am pleased a substantial final settlement has now been reached, which will provide the family with financial security and ensure they can adequately provide for their daughter throughout her lifetime."