Simon joined Weightmans healthcare team as
an Associate in April 2006. Simon provides legal advice to
NHS bodies on a broad range of healthcare issues. He
previously acted as a Defendant Solicitor for NHS clients in
respect of clinical negligence and personal injury cases.
He advises as to the impact of the Data
Protection Act 1998 upon public sector bodies, and as to their
obligations and duties under the Freedom of Information Act 2000,
in particular when responding to requests under this Act. He
has appeared before the First-Tier Tribunal (Information
Rights), the appellant body for decisions of the Information
Commissioner .
He advises NHS bodies in respect of the
application of The Mental Health Acts 1983 and 2007 and The Mental
Capacity Act 2005.
He has advised on best interest issues when
considering incapable patients. Examples include advising as
to the rights of mentally incapable patients due to their
age, substance abuse, lack of consciousness, learning disabilities
etc.
He has a particular interest in children’s
law and advises Trusts on children’s rights, particularly
on treatment issues. This has included obtaining
Emergency Treatment Orders for blood transfusions to children of
Jehovah’s Witnesses.
He regularly delivers talks and runs
workshops for all grades of doctors, midwives, health visitors,
medical records officers, legal advisers and administrative staff,
as well as Trust Board Directors.