Family to get payout after son left with acute disabilities

The family of a boy who has been left with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and cognitive difficulties are set to receive compensation after coming to a settlement with a hospital trust.

Lawyers for Toby Dicks claimed that, while under the nursing care of Torbay Hospital, he suffered blood contamination and septicaemia - a bacterial infection of the blood - the South Devon Herald Express reports.

He was in hospital having treatment after he began experiencing feeding difficulties when he was less than a year old.

South Devon Healthcare Trust, which administrates Torbay Hospital, has now admitted 80 per cent liability in the case during an out of court settlement.

While the exact payout sum has yet to be agreed, the damages claim made by the Dicks family is £3 million.

Commenting on the outcome, Toby's mother Dawn said: "The amount Toby will receive will be very substantial and it will ensure he gets the care he deserves for the rest of his life."

14/05/2008 15:31