Putting Patients’ Voices First

Stop the Pressure 2025 #StopThePressure campaign

Pressure sores are serious injuries that can lead to severe complications if not identified and treated promptly. Pressure sores can affect anyone but are most common in individuals who have limited mobility or are immobile.

Pressure sores do not always appear in a clinical setting and can develop before care is being provided. Those who are more at risk of developing pressure sores often frequently move between healthcare settings, making consistent care essential to prevent pressure sores developing or worsening.

Healthcare providers (whether in hospitals or care homes) are responsible for regularly assessing patients’ skin integrity, especially those at high risk for pressure ulcers. Failure to conduct these assessments can lead to undetected skin breakdown. Patients should be repositioned regularly to avoid such skin breakdown. Following protocols and using specialised mattresses or cushions help reduce the risk of the development and pressure sores. 

If these protocols are not followed, it can amount to negligent patient care which can cause or exacerbate the development of pressure sores, the consequences of which can be life threatening.

If a loved one has developed pressure sores, or existing pressure sores have been exacerbated as a result of medical negligence through inadequate monitoring or neglect, they may be entitled to compensation.

Stop the Pressure Week is held every November to raise awareness of pressure sore injuries, with the aim of raising awareness and driving care that listens, adapts and delivers. The focus of this year’s ‘Stop the Pressure’ Week is what matters to patients and highlights the importance of a patient’s voice in their treatment.

Our specialist Medical Negligence team are experienced in dealing with these claims in relation to pressure sores. Please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be able to advise whether a claim is worth pursuing.

Speak to Rachel Coward

Rachel is a Paralegal at Wollens and can advise you. Contact Rachel via email rachel.coward@wollens.co.uk or call 01803 225185.

Rachel Coward - Wollens Solicitors Devon

You can also complete an online enquiry form. One of the Wollens team will contact you as soon as they are available.