Edwin Buckett settles sex abuse claim against Consultant Psychiatrist

The Claimant, between the ages of 16 and 19, suffered sexual abuse during the course of consultations with Dr Andrew Clayton (Consultant Psychiatrist) employed by Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in the 1990s. The consultations were all unchaperoned and Dr Clayton perpetuated the abuse by prolonging the apparent treatment.

He also wrongly attributed psychiatric conditions to the Claimant, most probably to cast her in poor light, in order to make her less credible, should any future compliant be made about his conduct.

Dr Clayton was struck off the medical register by the GMC in July, 2010 for carrying out unnecessary examinations of women and harassment of female staff.

The causes of action were for assault, false imprisonment and negligence. Aggravated damages were also claimed. The Defendant Trust admitted vicarious liability.

A substantial confidential settlement was achieved for the Claimant (whose identity is protected) after a Joint Settlement Meeting, on the eve of the Claimant issuing High Court proceedings.

Edwin was instructed by Simon Rowley of the Smith Partnership.