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The infected blood scandal compensation scheme is undergoing substantial changes, as announced by the government following a critical report on the payment scheme. Cabinet Office minister, Nick Thomas-Symonds, aims to restore trust for those who have been repeatedly let down. While victims’ groups cautiously welcomed the announcement, some changes are still pending further consultation, which was disappointing for them.
Approximately 30,000 individuals were infected with HIV, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C during the 1970s, 80s, and early 90s due to contaminated blood products provided by the NHS. The inquiry’s main report from last year highlighted negligence in preventing the importation of contaminated blood products and a cover-up within health authorities. A follow-up report by Sir Brian Langstaff expressed concerns over the government’s management of the £11.8 billion compensation scheme, criticizing the delay in payments and the detrimental treatment of victims over the past year.
The government has accepted seven out of 16 recommendations from the inquiry regarding the scheme’s design, with the remainder open to consultation with victims. The Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) will implement all 11 recommendations under its jurisdiction. Changes include the introduction of a registration system for compensation, reinstatement of support payments for widows until their claim is finalized, and expanded eligibility for compensation for HIV patients pre-1982. Additionally, a review will be conducted on supplementary payments for victims involved in unethical medical research.
Under the revised rules, family members affected by the scandal can now claim compensation independently, even if they pass away before their claim is settled, as their payment can be passed on through their estate until December 31, 2031. The government will also seek feedback on recognizing the impact of interferon treatment for hepatitis C and severe psychological harm within the scheme. These changes are estimated to cost an additional £1 billion on top of the already allocated £11.8 billion for compensation. Andy Evans from Tainted Blood, representing victims and families, appreciated the announcement but stressed the need for further addressing compensation levels for hepatitis victims. He expressed hope for a better working relationship to ensure real justice for all victims of the scandal
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