We’re a clinical negligence powerhouse, boast lawyers

ADDENBROOKE’S, CAMBRIDGE: Barr Ellison solicitors is situated in the main concourse at Addenbrooke’s, between M&S and Burger King. The firm describes itself as a ‘clinical negligence powerhouse’. It boasts its hospital branch, one of only two, puts it ‘in direct contact with the people who need us most’. Cambridge University Hospitals Trust said: ‘They don’t take any cases against the trust.’ A spokesman for Barr Ellison claimed its main purpose was to serve the 14,000 workers at the hospital.

SOUTHAMPTON GENERAL: Posters in the A&E waiting room direct patients to Kiteleys Solicitors, which has an office next to the hospital canteen. The posters say: ‘We can help you claim compensation. Come and see us at our office in the hospital. No win, no fee!’ Kiteleys specialises in injury claims, but does not accept claims against the hospital. A trust spokesman said Kiteleys provided ‘convenient legal services, including will writing’. Mark Kiteley, chief executive of the firm, insisted most of the work at the branch related to property and private client work.

RUSSELLS HALL HOSPITAL, DUDLEY: The hospital trust is paid £12,000 a year to display patient information leaflets in its A&E unit. The NHS-branded leaflets carry adverts for the ASYST personal injury line, which say: ‘There is no shame in making an honest claim.’ Dr Paul Harrison, chief executive of the trust, said the money had been spent on the relatives room. ASYST did not respond to requests for comment.

HEARTLANDS HOSPITAL, BIRMINGHAM: Racks of NHS-branded leaflets give advice about ailments, aches and pains. On the reverse are adverts for Freeclaim Compensation Solicitors. A trust spokesman said it was reviewing the contract.