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Original poster

AIBU to think this maternity negligence payout seems disproportionately high

59 replies

Sheldonsheher · 06/06/2026 07:45

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9363yynkkdo

Although sad this maternity case award seems really high. Most children with these needs do not get millions to live. Would it not be better to spread such compensation money more fairly over lots of people than give to a small minority who can successfully litigate negligence?

A historic stone building in central London

Brain-damaged girl's family given £28m NHS settlement

The primary-school aged girl will need lifelong care and constant supervision, the High Court hears.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9363yynkkdo

OP posts:
jackstini · 06/06/2026 08:18

Level of costs aside, and would need looking into; but in general YANBU for thinking every baby failed in this way should get financial assistance, not just the ones with rich parents who can afford to sue

Safer maternity care would be even better

Original poster
Sheldonsheher · 06/06/2026 08:17

Our system only a few people get a massive amount and others get nothing.

Also the projected amounts for possible litigations run into billions.

Who earns 28 million in their lifetime not many let’s be honest.

Also maternity care is inherently difficult and that why no one wants to do obs in USA.

OP posts:
JohnnyFedora · 06/06/2026 08:16

Sheldonsheher · 06/06/2026 08:14

I believe New Zealand have a different system non adversarial where anyone can claim an amount without litigation if they meet the criteria. Judged by an independent panel of experts.

also it seems unfair that the life time earnings are based on the income level of the parents! Higher for higher earning parents that seems incredibly unfair.

Ok.... So what should it be based on. Minimum wage?

IonianNerveGrip · 06/06/2026 08:14

YABU to post this without even attempting to cost it. Your premise is based on what, vibes?

Original poster
Sheldonsheher · 06/06/2026 08:14

I believe New Zealand have a different system non adversarial where anyone can claim an amount without litigation if they meet the criteria. Judged by an independent panel of experts.

also it seems unfair that the life time earnings are based on the income level of the parents! Higher for higher earning parents that seems incredibly unfair.

OP posts:
Eviebeans · 06/06/2026 07:50

In the scenario you suggest how would you see that working. How would the recipients of compensation be identified if the families have not been to court?

GoodkneeBadKnee · 06/06/2026 07:49

How much do you think they should've got OP? And what are your qualifications for arriving at that amount?

MidnightPatrol · 06/06/2026 07:47

The sums are so high in maternity negligence cases because they typically involve funding life long care.

Evilkineavel · 06/06/2026 07:46

No.