Support continues for mesh implant surgery claimants

Supporting those negatively affected by pelvic mesh implants has become a key part of our solicitor, Anne Saunderson’s role here at Fosters Solicitors.

Anne joined our Medical Negligence team back in 2020, and has been an important part of the firm’s growth in this practice area, alongside Partner and head of department, David Gabell.

The department continues to grow and is fast becoming one of the largest clinical negligence teams in our region, with Anne developing a specialism in the area of mesh implant claims.

This area unfortunately continues to make the headlines, with reports only this month of dozens of women having been left unrepresented in their legal cases due to the Solicitors Regulation Authority intervening and closing Sussex-based firm Fortitude Law.

There also remains continued concerns from campaigners about the time it is taking for the many affected to receive redress and compensation – now three years on from the key recommendations set out in the Cumberlege Report. A further report from The Patient Safety Commissioner, Henrietta Hughes and Patient Minister, Maria Caulfield MP is being anticipated later this year for a further government update.

In the meantime, many of those who are living with the severe and often debilitating complications of mesh surgery continue to pursue their own personal claim for compensation.

Anne Saunderson, explains: “We are actively representing and supporting a number of women in their pursuit for financial redress.

“Their daily lives have been significantly affected by mesh implant surgery – some previously active and independent women are now reliant on wheelchairs and carers, while many have also experienced relationship breakdowns because of their inability to engage in physical intimacy, which has left them physically, emotionally and financially vulnerable. The emotional impact on those affected cannot be under-estimated and I am frequently told about how they continue to feel  gaslighted by the medical profession.

“Their determination and strength is inspiring and we are determined to help them through all the processes available to us, to seek compensation to secure the healthcare support and access to services for them to be able to positively move forward with their lives.

“We very much appreciate that the process can seem daunting, especially in light of the negativity surrounding the time and hurdles it’s taking for these cases to be resolved. But we would still encourage anyone effected by this type of surgery to come forward, at least for an informal conversation to see whether a claim may be possible. There are also some important advice and support groups out there, with several of our clients actively involved with ‘Sling the Mesh’, which is active on social media and brings the community of those impacted together.”

If you would like more information regarding a possible claim, whether you have been affected personally or a family member has, Anne and our team are available for a free informal chat. Please contact them on 01603 620508 or by email.

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