An unfortunate effect of the �compensation culture� is that �accidents� no longer happen. There must always be somebody to blame.
In the past tragic accidents occurred (such as a child drowning in a paddling pool) just as they do now. The coroner would return a verdict of accidental death, there would be obvious sorrow and grief, but that was that.
Now, particularly where children are concerned, �supervision� is paramount. A couple of weeks ago a case was reported where a bouncy castle was hired for a child�s birthday party and was used in a private garden. A child was left brain damaged because of an accident and the people who hired the device were ordered to pay compensation (running into millions) for failing to supervise the activities adequately.
Local councils quite rightly insist that indemnity is secured for activities taking place on property for which they are responsible. If they failed to do so and an accident occurred they could find themselves liable for compensation and this would have to be met by council taxpayers.
Yes, the situation is ludicrous. But don�t blame the council. Blame Parliament for allowing the law to develop to such a state where a simple accident can no longer take place.