Understanding your circumstances
Problems can arise at different points in a care pathway, from a GP consultation to emergency or inpatient treatment. Establishing the sequence of events helps identify which decisions need investigation.
A claim focuses on avoidable harm caused by care below the required standard. If your main aim is an explanation or a change in service, a complaint may also be relevant.
When a claim may be relevant
- A failure to refer or escalate a concern appropriately
- Inadequate assessment or monitoring
- A failure to act on important test results
These examples may need investigation. They do not establish eligibility or guarantee a successful claim.
Evidence to keep
- Dates and locations of consultations or admissions
- The names of relevant providers, where known
- Complaint correspondence and treatment records
Keep what you already have, but do not delay seeking advice to collect every document.
What might compensation consider?
Depending on the case, an assessment may consider the injury, recovery, pain and suffering, lost earnings, treatment, care and other reasonable losses caused by the incident. The evidence and legal basis must support each part of a claim.
Costs and time limits
Time limits apply and depend on the circumstances. Seek advice promptly, particularly if the incident or treatment happened some time ago. Making an enquiry does not stop a deadline.
No Win, No Fee may be available. Eligibility, terms and possible deductions apply. How funding works
Read about time limits or explore funding.
Do I have to complain before asking about a claim?
You can seek legal advice about a potential claim without waiting for a complaint to conclude. A complaint does not normally pause the time limit for bringing proceedings.