A Switalskis medical negligence solicitor has spoken to the BBC ahead of the inquest into the death of a three-year-old girl, as her family continue to seek answers about the care she received.

The inquest into the death of Ciara Drinann, from Doncaster, has been taking place at Doncaster Coroners' Court, beginning Monday 15 June and now set to conclude early next year. It has been examining the circumstances surrounding Ciara's death and whether lessons can be learned to help protect other children living with severe kidney disease.

Ciara, who had been diagnosed with renal failure at birth, died on 12 January 2025 after attending Doncaster Royal Infirmary the previous day with laboured breathing.

Plans had been made to transfer her to Nottingham for emergency dialysis. However, her condition deteriorated and she developed pulmonary oedema before suffering a cardiac arrest. Despite efforts to resuscitate her, she died in hospital.

The inquest is expected to explore the care provided to Ciara in relation to her kidney condition and the events leading up to her death. This includes the management of her deteriorating kidney function, the timing and planning of dialysis, and the care she received during her final admission to hospital.

It is also anticipated that the Coroner will consider issues identified within the Trust's own care review, including communication and accessibility considerations for Ciara's deaf parents.

Luke Simpson speaks to the BBC

Ahead of the inquest opening, Luke Simpson, a solicitor in Switalskis' medical negligence team, spoke to the BBC about the family's hopes for the proceedings.

Luke, who is representing Ciara's family, said:

"Ciara's family are still coming to terms with her loss and hope the inquest will provide answers about the decisions made in the lead-up to her death, and identify any learning that could help protect other children living with severe kidney disease."

The family's focus remains on understanding what happened and ensuring that any opportunities to improve patient safety are identified.

Seeking answers through the inquest process

An inquest is an independent investigation carried out by a Coroner to establish who has died, and when, where and how they came by their death.

For many families, the inquest process can play an important role in helping them understand the circumstances surrounding the death of a loved one. It can also shine a light on wider issues within healthcare systems and identify changes that could help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The inquest into Ciara's death is expected to consider evidence from a number of organisations involved in her care. Interested parties include Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, which is responsible for Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, a linked transplant centre.

The hearing is now scheduled to conclude in January 2027.

Supporting families following a bereavement

At Switalskis, we understand that no legal process can ease the pain of losing a child. However, families often tell us that obtaining answers, understanding whether mistakes were made, and helping to improve care for others can be an important part of moving forward.

Our medical negligence team supports families through inquests with compassion and sensitivity, helping them navigate what can be an overwhelming and emotional process while ensuring their voices are heard.

If you have concerns about the medical treatment you or a loved one received, our specialist medical negligence solicitors are here to listen and advise you on the options available.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, here’s how you can get in touch with us. Click here to find out more.