Legal & policy
A Cambridge academic has been accused of deliberately underperforming on IQ and memory tests to strengthen a £1 million compensation claim against the NHS for alleged failings in stroke care. Dr Mohamed Atef Hakmi, 64, an orthopaedic surgeon and affiliated assistant professor at Cambridge University, is suing the NHS, claiming a delayed diagnosis of a [...]
The recent surge in ADHD referrals is attributed to increased awareness and acceptance of the condition, rather than an actual rise in its prevalence, according to a new systematic review. Researchers from King's College London's Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience analyzed 40 studies conducted since January 2020 across 17 countries. They found no significant [...]
Founded in 1987, Jane James and Associates is a standalone expert witness firm. Now, Luci Lloyd, Jane's daughter, has taken the reins to help grow the firm and its team of expert witnesses. As a paediatric nurse with 17 years of experience in the NHS, Luci transitioned from her role as a clinical nurse specialist [...]
The UK’s independent sentencing review - launched in October 2024 - aimed to address current prison and probation challenges and better support victims. The final report, published in May 2025, has been welcomed by brain injury charity Headway - which is now calling on the government to formally recognise and invest in increasing understanding of [...]
Lorna Halfpenny-Beeby, senior partner at JE Bennett Law, brings a rare combination of legal acumen and lived experience to her work. With a background in psychology and early career roles supporting individuals with brain injuries, as well as personal insight through a family member's paralysis, she is uniquely equipped to support clients navigating life after [...]
The UK’s largest clinical negligence practice Fletchers Solicitors is embarking on an expansion, launching a new office in Newcastle. The new office, based on Pilgrim Street, Newcastle, will act as a regional hub that will help to support people in the North East who have experiences a personal injury or clinical negligence, according to reports. [...]
A charity which delivers emotional support to parents of seriously ill or disabled children is able to grow its life-changing provision even further through a new partnership. Harry’s Pals offers a unique service which helps parents to negotiate the hugely challenging times after their child receives a devastating diagnosis – something which has a significant [...]
Charity The Spinal Injuries Association has issued a statement in response to the UK Government's Immigration White Paper. Prime Minister Kier Stamer said that the 'strategy will finally take back control of our borders and close the book on a squalid chapter for our politics, our economy, and our country.' The SIA responded: "The Spinal [...]
A music conductor in the US has returned to the podium after receiving innovative brain technology that controls his Parkinson's tremors, allowing him to lead his symphony with renewed confidence. Rand Laycock*, 70, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease shortly before turning 60 after seeking medical advice for thumb twitching. The retired music teacher has guided [...]
A new NHS initiative to prevent brain injuries during childbirth will be implemented nationwide following successful pilot testing at selected maternity units. The Avoiding Brain Injury in Childbirth (ABC) programme, scheduled to begin this September, aims to help maternity staff better identify signs of foetal distress during labour and respond more effectively to obstetric emergencies. [...]
