Nursing negligence claims

We also know that taking legal action can feel like a big step, especially when you are already exhausted and uncertain. Many of our clients come to us not knowing whether they have a case or worrying that pursuing a claim will be stressful and drawn out. What they find is a team that listens, explains things clearly, and takes on the hard work so they don’t have to.

Nursing negligence occurs when a nurse or care team fails to provide the standard of care that a reasonably competent nurse would be expected to deliver, and that failure causes harm. This can include:

• Failing to monitor a patient’s condition properly
• Making errors in administering medication
• Failing to escalate concerns to a doctor
• Poor handling leading to a fall or injury
• Not maintaining accurate patient records

If the care fell below an acceptable standard and you suffered as a result, you may have a valid nursing negligence claim.

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the negligence, or from the date you first became aware that negligence may have caused your harm, to make a claim. For children, the three-year period does not begin until they turn 18, and for those who lack mental capacity, the time limit may not apply in the same way.

If you’re unsure whether you’re still within the time limit, speak to us as soon as possible, and we will advise you.

We will help you gather the evidence needed to support your nursing negligence claim. This typically includes:

• Your medical and nursing records
• Any correspondence with the hospital, care home, or NHS trust
• An independent expert assessment of whether the care you received fell below the required standard

You don’t need to have everything ready before you contact us; we will guide you through the process from the start.

Yes. Nursing negligence claims can arise in care home settings as well as hospitals. Common examples include pressure sores caused by insufficient care, injuries following falls or poor handling, and prescription errors.

If you or a loved one has suffered harm in a care home because the nursing care provided fell below an acceptable standard, you may be entitled to claim nursing negligence compensation.

Yes, in certain circumstances. If a family member died as a result of nursing negligence, eligible relatives may be able to bring a claim on behalf of the estate or in their own right. The rules around who can claim and on what basis can be complicated, so we would encourage you to speak to one of our specialists who can advise you specifically.

The length of time a nursing negligence claim takes depends on its complexity and whether the other side accepts liability. Straightforward cases can sometimes be resolved within months. More complex cases, particularly those involving serious or long-term harm, can take longer.

We will always give you a realistic assessment of timescales and keep you updated throughout the process.

From the moment you contact us, our focus is on making the process as straightforward as possible for you. We will assign you a specialist nursing negligence solicitor who will handle your case, explain everything clearly, and keep you informed at every stage.

Where appropriate, we can also help you access rehabilitation support, interim payments to cover immediate costs, and other practical assistance so you are not waiting until the end of your claim to get support.