Meta Description: Suffered a pressure sore due to hospital or care home negligence? Discover how pressure sore claims work, what compensation you can receive, and how to begin your claim.
1. What Are Pressure Sores and Why Do They Occur?
Pressure sores (also known as bedsores or pressure ulcers) are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on the skin. They commonly affect:
- The back
- Buttocks
- Heels
- Hips
- Elbows
They occur when patients are not regularly moved or repositioned—typically in hospitals, care homes, or during recovery from surgery.
2. Can You Claim Compensation for Pressure Sores?
Yes. If pressure sores develop due to negligence—such as failure to move a patient regularly, inadequate staffing, or delayed treatment—you may be able to claim compensation. This applies to:
- Patients in NHS or private hospitals
- Residents in care or nursing homes
- Individuals receiving in-home care
You can also claim on behalf of a loved one, including children or deceased family members.
3. Common Causes of Pressure Sore Negligence
- Failure to conduct regular risk assessments
- Infrequent repositioning of immobile patients
- Poor hygiene or bedding conditions
- Delayed response to visible signs of pressure sores
- Lack of appropriate medical intervention
- Inadequate staff training or oversight
Proper care standards could have prevented these injuries.
4. What Can You Claim for in a Pressure Sore Case?
Compensation may include:
- General damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological trauma
- Loss of dignity and reduced quality of life
- Special damages:
- Medical expenses
- Cost of care and rehabilitation
- Travel to medical appointments
- Loss of earnings (if applicable)
- Home modifications (for severe cases)
A solicitor will assess both physical and emotional damages.
5. How Much Compensation Can You Receive?
Compensation depends on severity and duration. Example payouts:
- Minor sores with full recovery: £1,500 – £4,000
- Moderate sores needing ongoing care: £5,000 – £15,000
- Severe pressure ulcers with permanent damage: £25,000 – £100,000+
- Fatal cases (wrongful death claims): Higher amounts including bereavement and dependency damages
Every claim is unique, so a solicitor will calculate based on medical evidence and personal impact.
6. Steps to Make a Pressure Sore Claim
- Seek medical attention for the injury
- Report the incident to the hospital or care provider
- Keep records of symptoms, medical notes, and photos
- Contact a medical negligence solicitor
- Gather evidence, including expert medical opinions
- File the claim with the responsible party’s insurer
Most claims are handled out of court, through negotiation.
7. Who Can Be Held Liable?
Liability may rest with:
- The NHS or private healthcare providers
- Care home operators
- Individual medical staff (in some rare cases)
Claims are usually filed against the organisation’s insurance, not an individual staff member.
8. How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim?
In the UK, you have three years from:
- The date the injury occurred, or
- The date you became aware it was due to negligence
Exceptions:
- Children: Time starts at age 18
- Mental incapacity: Time paused until capacity is regained
- Death: Three years from the date of death or post-mortem results
Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and speeds up the claim.
9. What If the Patient Has Passed Away?
You may still file a wrongful death claim on behalf of a deceased loved one if pressure sore complications contributed to their death. Compensation can include:
- Funeral expenses
- Bereavement damages
- Dependency claims (for spouses or dependents)
Speak to a solicitor for compassionate, confidential advice.
10. Do You Need a Solicitor?
Yes. Pressure sore claims involve medical and legal complexities. A solicitor will:
- Request full medical records
- Arrange independent medical assessments
- Determine if negligence occurred
- Negotiate with insurers
- Represent you in court if necessary
Most offer no win no fee arrangements, so there’s no upfront cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I claim if the pressure sore occurred in an NHS hospital?
A: Yes. The NHS can be held liable for negligent care through its resolution service.
Q2: What evidence do I need for a claim?
A: Medical records, photos, witness statements, and an expert report showing substandard care.
Q3: Will I need to go to court?
A: Most claims are settled without a trial. A solicitor prepares for court only if needed.
Q4: Can I claim if the sore was discovered after discharge?
A: Yes. You can claim as long as it can be shown that the sore developed due to previous poor care.
Q5: Can I claim for psychological harm or trauma?
A: Yes. Emotional suffering and distress are part of your claim.
Q6: Are claims limited to physical injury?
A: No. You may also claim for financial losses and emotional trauma.
Conclusion
Pressure sore claims offer a path to justice and compensation for those who suffer due to inadequate medical or care home treatment. Whether you’re acting for yourself or a loved one, a skilled solicitor can guide you through the legal process and ensure your voice is heard. Don’t delay—get the support you need to make a successful claim today.
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5 SEO Titles:
- Pressure Sore Claims: Your Guide to Medical Negligence Compensation
- Suffering From Bedsores? Here’s How to Claim Compensation
- Pressure Sore Claims UK: What You Need to Know
- Care Home or Hospital Neglect? Start Your Pressure Sore Claim Today
- How to Make a Successful Pressure Sore Compensation Claim
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