Sarah specialises in cases involving elder abuse/neglect and is passionate about achieving justice for vulnerable victims in these cases.
More often than not, Sarah acts for the families of those elderly or vulnerable people who have been abused/neglected as they themselves may suffer from conditions such as dementia and thus are considered to lack capacity under the Mental Health Act 2005.
Some of the individuals she helps get to the truth about what happened to their loved ones are widows or other family members who wish to bring claims on behalf of their relatives for the sub-standard treatment they received whilst in a care/nursing home.
These claims can be very emotionally charged, protracted and upsetting for Sarah's clients and she offers support at all stages including representation at an inquest.
Sarah strives to make the litigation process as simple and stress free as possible for her clients. It is important to Sarah that they feel they can contact her with any queries they may have and that they feel Sarah is there to support them even at the most difficult times.
Care home claims
BBC News (24 July 2019):
Credit: BBC North West.
Client testimonials
“I cannot recommend Sarah and her team enough. With a friendly, professional and dedicated approach to matters at hand they definitely make you feel like you're in good hands. They've allowed me to close the door on this dreaded chapter and move on with my life and I cannot thank them enough.”
“Very thorough and no stone left unturned. From the initial meeting I felt trust, confidence and comfort that I was listened to and not dismissed as a mercenary. Communication has always been at the forefront of my case whether email telephone or letter, if Sarah has never been immediately available a follow up call can be guaranteed to ensue at her earliest convenience. Although my case is still ongoing, have full confidence in Sarah and her team fulfilling my case. I would, without hesitation, definitely use the services of this company again and indeed recommend to anyone seeking legal representation.”
"I was initially unsure if I wanted to pursue a claim. I met with Sarah and she explained the process to me. I felt reassured and I proceeded with the claim. My opponents dug their heels in and denied responsibility for my accident. I was worried about this but I spoke to Sarah and again she reassured me. Throughout the case if I had any queries or concerns, I would just contact Sarah and she would explain matters to me. If Sarah wasn’t available, I would speak to a colleague and they would try and help. My queries and letters were always responded to promptly. I knew at all times where I stood and I never felt alone in the process. I visited the offices on a couple of occasions. They were lovely and the ladies on reception were very friendly, in fact the whole of the staff I spoke to were. I was very pleased with the outcome. I would definitely recommend Sarah and Shoosmiths to my friends and family."
"Sarah Cunliffe has been supporting me in addition to providing me with legal advice. She has listened to my worries and always found answers to my questions. She is professional and tactful. I would use her again.""My solicitor, Sarah Cunliffe, made the process straightforward. She explained the process to me fully at the outset and kept me well informed. My correspondence was replied to promptly and all letters were straightforward and easy to understand. I would recommend Sarah to my family and friends. They offer a great service and Sarah was excellent and very good at her job. She wouldn’t take any messing around from my opponents."