Mr Colin Rotherham, 62, a retired support worker who lives with Type 2 Diabetes, was under the care of Castlefield and St Paul’s Health Centre, part of Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.  

During a routine appointment at Castlefields on 12 January 2023, Mr Rotherham says he felt a sharp pain following which the podiatrist applied Opsite spray and sent him home. 

However, on arriving home, he found a pool of blood in his sock. Concerned that he may have been cut during his appointment, and worried about infection risks linked to diabetes, he contacted his GP and was prescribed antibiotics.  

Over the following weeks and months, Mr Rotherham continued attending podiatry appointments during which staff cleaned and dressed the wound and told him that the wound was healing.  

However, Mr Rotherham said he felt ongoing pain, and that he had observed that his blood sugar levels were raised. This prompted him to request for a further swab during his routine appointments to check for further infections, but he says his concerns were dismissed. 

It wasn’t until late April when his wife removed a dressing that had come loose that it was discovered that the tip of his toe had become black and necrotic. A swab was finally taken, confirming infection, and he was urgently referred to the Diabetic Foot Clinic, where he was diagnosed with gangrene.  

On 17 May 2023, at the Countess of Chester Hospital, he underwent emergency surgery to amputate his second toe on the left foot. 

Following the amputation, Mr Rotherham instructed Thompsons Solicitors to investigate his care. The Trust went on to admit that earlier action - such as prompt imaging, referral and infection management - could have avoided the need for amputation. 

It also acknowledged that ‘the failure of the podiatry team to adhere to NICE guidelines and refer the Claimant to the Diabetic Foot clinic MDT, fell below a reasonable standard of care’. 

“You see a health professional and you place your trust in them,” said Mr Rotherham. “I kept asking if it was healing properly. I was in pain, and my blood sugar was all over the place, but I believed them. 
I even asked for a swab—but was told it wasn’t needed. I just didn’t feel listened to. 

“It was devastating. To go from discomfort to being told your toe is dead—it was such a shock. At one point, doctors feared they’d have to remove my whole foot. And to think it could have been avoided with the right aftercare. 

“The podiatrist even said, ‘mistakes happen’. But that’s not good enough when those mistakes cost you part of your body. I still don’t feel like anyone’s really acknowledged how badly I was let down.” 

The case was settled out of court, with Mr Rotherham receiving compensation that reflects the serious nature of the injury, and the ongoing costs of rehabilitation and his mobility needs. 

Reece Trammer, Mr Rotherham’s solicitor at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “This case highlights the serious consequences of failing to follow clinical guidelines. With proper care, this amputation could have been avoided. While the Trust’s admissions are welcome, these failings must not be repeated.” 

Since surgery, Mr Rotherham says he has mobility and confidence has been affected, and he now has difficulties with his balance which he believes is as a result of the amputation. He now requires specialist footwear and is no longer able to drive long distances. He continues to receive podiatry care from the same Trust. At a recent appointment, another cut occurred during nail trimming—though this time, infection protocols were followed. 

“I just want to make sure the Trust is listening—and that people know they have a right to speak up. If you’re not happy, ask questions. Don’t just accept what you’re told. I also want people to know that if the worst happens, there is help available. 

“Reece understood how to work with me and explain things in a way that made sense. As someone with Autism, that really mattered.” 

Now, Mr Rotherham is calling for urgent improvements to diabetic foot care - particularly for vulnerable patients. He’s urging NHS Trusts to strengthen staff training, follow national guidelines, and prioritise early intervention. 

“I hope my story helps others spot the warning signs. If something doesn’t feel right, get a second opinion. And if you’re not getting the care you deserve, get help—Thompsons were brilliant.”