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Stewarts’ hosted its fourth case managers’ training seminar on 20 September 2018. The training was organised by Clare Salmon and Nichola Fosler, partners in our Personal Injury department.

We were delighted to welcome over 50 external delegates to the event as well as having the privilege of hearing from our eminent panel speakers: Emma Way (case manager/care and occupational therapist expert from Emma Way Associates), Susan Rodway QC and Sir Colin Mackay (both of 39 Essex Chambers), Frances Mayne (Senior Partner and Professional Deputy from Wilsons Solicitors) and Rachel Burley-Stower (community care law solicitor from Martin Searle Solicitors).

The theme of the afternoon was ‘Be Prepared – Helping our clients maximise their potential’, in terms of both their rehabilitation and preparing the case for trial. A number of topics were discussed, including:

• Clare and Nichola considered issues surrounding significant interim payment applications in light of changes to the discount rate and the difficulties thereby caused with the current law under Roberts v Johnstone for accommodation claims, with possible solutions proposed;
• Emma explored the role of care expert as against that of clinical case manager as a witness of fact and commented on the tensions that may arise;
• Susan Rodway QC and Sir Colin Mackay provided a fantastic insight into trial preparation from both counsel and a judge’s perspective, with tips on how case managers can best prepare to give evidence either as a care expert or lay witness;
• Rachel explored the statutory entitlement challenges for care and healthcare needs for those with serious injuries, with some excellent case examples;
• Finally, Frances considered life post-litigation and the role that she has to play as professional Deputy or Trustee in terms of future financial planning including the importance of reviewing statutory funding options and putting a will in place.

Overall the emphasis of the day was about collaboration between all the parties and addressing the claimants’ needs from the outset as well as focusing upon their duties to the court and claimant.

It was a highly interactive conference with many of the case mangers sharing stories of their own experiences of giving evidence in court either as a witness of fact or as an expert, which will no doubt help others gain confidence to do so if the need arises.

At the end of the day more ‘war’ stories were shared over a drink and canape or two.

We very much look forward to more lively debate at next year’s event and any suggestions for new topics to cover will be gratefully received by emailing Clare Salmon or Nichola Fosler.

Life Beyond Injury

We have teamed up with clients who have suffered catastrophic injuries to tell their stories. 

We hope that by sharing these stories, newly injured people can see that with the right support they too can overcome adversity to lead full and active lives. Please visit the Life Beyond Injury webpage here.

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