Taxpayers are being faced with a bill of more than £40million to compensate for babies harmed in the womb by their mothers' heavy drinking.
Official documents show that the Government may have to payout a massive sum if it loses an important case later this year. There are about 87 young claimants to receive compensation, worth up to £500,000 each if the judges rule that the alcoholism of their pregnant mothers led to the claimants in becoming victims of crimes while still in the womb.
The payments will be generated if a six-year-old girl affected by foetal alcohol spectrum disorder wins an upcoming test case.The girl was left with serious birth defects, including learning disabilities, facial abnormalities and growth problems. Her adoptive parents brought the case to help cover the costs of the treatment that she will be needing throughout her life.
Lawyers will argue that the girl conclusively suffered an assault similar to grievous bodily harm, such was the damage caused by her mother’s drinking while pregnant.
Neil Sugarman, of GLP Solicitors said “Sadly, the children and young people we represent have been terribly badly damaged by foetal alcohol syndrome. They struggle to have access to the treatment and therapies they so badly need. We want them to have the chance to ask the tribunal to reconsider whether they deserve an award under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme.”
