The Speedy Resolution Scheme, launched for a six month trial by the Assembly this week, is an attempt to reduce the cost and delay of medical disputes in cases worth between £5,000 and £15,000. The scheme also encourages NHS trusts to provide apologies and compile action plans to prevent errors being repeated.

Solicitor Ken Thomas, medical negligence expert with Newport-based law firm Harding Evans, welcomed the new arrangements. “Anything that quickens these processes and at the same time goes some way to preventing the errors being repeated must be welcomed”, he said.