Six figure damages award for Claims Adjuster who suffered occupational stress. Greg had over 25 years of experience working in the insurance industry. He had been working as a Senior Claims Adjuster for a major global insurer for seven years when he began to suffer from stress due to an excessive workload.
In 2008, Greg suffered a panic attack and had a minor breakdown that resulted in him nearly taking his own life.
Greg was off work sick for two months before returning to his previous position where he continued to suffer prominent anxiety symptoms focused on work.
After experiencing another period of depression and anxiety, Greg suffered a panic attack in January 2011 where he was again signed off work due to stress.
Greg returned to work that summer on a phased basis but was unable to resume his previous full time role.
He experienced further panic attacks before having to stop work for a prolonged period in October 2014.
Greg also experienced multiple episodes of dissociative amnesia during which he felt his chest tighten, his skin flush and a depressed mood. He also experienced erratic sleep, gained weight and suffered reduced levels of concentration and energy.
He received extensive psychiatric and psychological treatment and was prescribed anti-depressant medication and will need to continue with this for the foreseeable future. He is at an increased risk of relapse when confronted with stress.
We were successful in obtaining a compensation award of £100,000 for Greg.
Richard Edwards, Partner at Hugh James, acted for Greg and said:
This was a hard fought and very complex claim. When Greg approached me he was handling the claim himself and needed assistance lawyers with the expertise to handle what are very difficult cases. The opponent challenged all aspects of the claim and liability was hotly disputed. It was very pleasing to be able to secure substantial damages for my client and to bring the claim to a successful conclusion.
The names and identifying details of the client have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals involved.
