April is HIE Awareness Month: Shedding Light on a Silent Struggle

Each April, families, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups unite to recognize HIE Awareness Month - a time dedicated to increasing understanding, promoting early intervention, and supporting those affected by Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE).

What is HIE?

HIE, or Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy, is a type of brain injury caused by a lack of oxygen and blood flow to the brain, most commonly during childbirth. It can occur due to a variety of complications, including issues with the placenta, umbilical cord, or prolonged labour. HIE can lead to a wide range of outcomes, from mild developmental delays to lifelong disabilities such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy, or cognitive impairments. In severe cases, it can be fatal.

Despite its seriousness, HIE is not widely known outside medical or affected communities. That’s why awareness is so critical.

Why HIE Awareness Month Matters

For many families, an HIE diagnosis comes suddenly and without warning. It’s a traumatic and life-altering event. Parents are often left with overwhelming questions, unclear prognoses, and the emotional weight of navigating complex medical decisions. Awareness month is an opportunity to:

• Educate the public and medical community about risk factors, warning signs, and best practices for managing potential HIE cases.

• Support families affected by HIE, letting them know they are not alone.

• Advocate for better perinatal care, timely interventions, and continued research into prevention and treatment options.

• Remember the children who have been lost and honour those living with the effects of HIE every day.

  
  

Progress and Hope

Over the years, advancements in neonatal care have made a difference. Interventions like therapeutic hypothermia (cooling therapy), when administered within six hours of birth, have been shown to reduce the severity of brain injury in some newborns. However, early recognition and quick, appropriate medical response are critical, making awareness and training essential.

Still, as recent cases and inquiries have shown, preventable harm continues to occur in maternity and neonatal care. HIE Awareness Month also serves as a call to action for healthcare systems to learn from past mistakes, prioritize transparency, and continually improve standards of care.

Graystons Solicitors

A solicitor can play a vital role for families pursuing a Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) claim - offering guidance, support, and legal expertise during what is often a deeply emotional and complex journey. Here’s a breakdown of what a solicitor can do for HIE claimants:

1. Investigate the Cause of the Injury

Solicitors specializing in medical negligence will thoroughly investigate whether the HIE was preventable and whether there was a breach of the duty of care. This includes:

• Obtaining and reviewing medical records

• Consulting independent medical experts

• Identifying errors or delays in care (e.g., failure to monitor fetal distress, delayed delivery, improper use of equipment)

2. Build a Strong Case for Compensation

If negligence is identified, the solicitor will build a legal case to demonstrate how failures in care directly caused or contributed to the child’s injury. This involves:

• Gathering expert evidence

• Calculating the full scope of damages (including future care needs)

• Preparing court documents and correspondence

3. Secure Financial Compensation

HIE can have lifelong implications, and the financial costs are significant. A solicitor can help claimants obtain compensation to cover:

• Ongoing medical treatment

• Specialist therapies (physio, speech & language, occupational therapy)

• Adaptive equipment and mobility aids

• Home modifications

• Lost earnings for parents who become full-time carers

• Pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life

  
  

The settlement can often be structured to ensure long-term support through periodic payments.

4. Support the Family Throughout the Process

Solicitors understand how traumatic these cases are. The best ones offer compassionate, client-focused support and will:

• Guide families step-by-step through the legal process

• Offer clarity on timelines and expectations

• Connect families with additional resources (medical experts, charities, support groups)

5. Represent the Family in Legal Proceedings

Should the case go to court (though many settle before trial), your solicitor will:

• Represent the family during hearings

• Present expert evidence

• Advocate for a just outcome

6. Ensure the Child’s Future is Protected

In successful claims, solicitors will also help:

• Appoint a Deputy through the Court of Protection (if necessary) to manage funds for the child

• Work with financial advisors to structure compensation responsibly

• Help access ongoing educational and social care support

At Graystons, we have over 25 years of experience supporting families with their claims.

If you would like free, informal advice, in the first instance, please get in touch at enquiries@graystons.co.uk or Tel: 0151 645 005. There is no charge, and we are happy to investigate your claim under a ‘no win, no fee agreement.’