Coroner Rules Baby Boy's Death Was Preventable

A baby boy died aged four-days-old following a "catalogue of errors" by hospital staff, an inquest has found.

Coroner Lisa Hashmi ruled that Dylan Harrison Oates was the victim of neglect by those supposed to be caring for him at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

Dylan's mother, Jayne Oates, was admitted to the hospital on January 14, 2014, to have the birth of Dylan induced because she was overdue. Two days later Dylan was born, but lived only until January 20, due to "errors and omissions" by maternity staff.

The inquest heard that the maternity ward was "frenetically busy" when Mrs Oates was admitted, and that she was transferred to the hospital's birth centre – contrary to the usual care for mums in Mrs Oates' position.

Dylan was one of seven babies and three mums to die at the Royal Oldham and North Manchester General Hospitals within the space of eight months – a figure which lead to an external investigation.

After the hearing, Dylan's parents spoke of their heartbreak over their son's death. In a statement they said:

"We are devastated by the loss of Dylan. Although our time with Dylan was very brief, we absolutely adored him and always will.

"The investigation has uncovered the many things that should have been done differently during the days leading up to Dylan's birth. It gives us some comfort that as a result of this investigation, improvements are being made."

If you believe you have been the victim of medical negligence you may be owed compensation. Call our team on 0800 811 844 to discuss your circumstances.

Mellor Hargreaves Ltd

Medical Negligence Solicitors