Seonaid Brophy, a partner at Thompsons Solicitors and a specialist in accident at work claims, successfully represented an NHS employee injured during the course of his employment. The client, employed as a Maintenance Technician with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, suffered significant injuries after falling from a ladder while performing a roof repair on 29 October 2021.
Incident Details
The client, with over 20 years of NHS service, was tasked with clearing a blocked gully hole on a roof approximately 20 feet high. While descending the roof via an extendable ladder, the ladder gave way, causing the client to fall to the ground. The fall resulted in multiple serious injuries, including:
- Fractures to both heels
- A fractured back
- A broken right wrist
The client was not provided with appropriate safety equipment for working at height and was working alone at the time of the accident, despite previous complaints to management regarding his responsibilities and working conditions.
Impact on the Client
The injuries had a profound impact on the client’s personal and professional life, including:
- Prolonged absence from work and eventual termination of employment due to capability.
- Ongoing pain, mobility challenges, and reduced quality of life.
- Dependency on family members for daily tasks and personal care.
Legal Action
Thompsons Solicitors, instructed on behalf of the client through Unison, immediately intimated a claim to the client’s employer, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. The employer denied liability, asserting that the client should have requested assistance prior to the task. Despite this, Thompsons believed there were strong prospects for success and proceeded with court action in the All-Scotland Personal Injury Court.
Expert Evidence
Thompsons engaged multiple experts, including:
- A Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
- A Consultant Psychiatrist
- A Consultant Orthotist
- A Consultant Actuary
The evidence demonstrated the extent of the client’s injuries, the impact on his mental health, and the long-term implications for his mobility and earning capacity.
Settlement
Following negotiations and court proceedings:
- An initial offer of £65,000 was rejected.
- Subsequent offers of £85,000 and £95,000 were also rejected after consultation with the client and Counsel.
- A final counter-proposal of £105,000 was accepted by the defenders.
Outcome
The settlement reflects the severity of the client’s injuries and the lifelong impact on his physical and professional capabilities.
Quote from Seonaid Brophy
“This case underscores the importance of holding employers accountable for ensuring workplace safety. Our client’s injuries were entirely preventable, and we are pleased to have secured a settlement that provides him with financial security and recognises the challenges he faces moving forward. Every worker deserves to feel safe and supported in their workplace, and this outcome highlights the vital role legal representation plays in achieving justice.”
Conclusion
Thompsons Solicitors is proud to stand by workers and fight for their rights, ensuring fair outcomes even in complex cases. If you or someone you know has been injured at work, contact us today for expert advice.
