Solicitors welcome government compensation for Infected Blood Scandal victims

The UK government has confirmed that victims of the contaminated blood scandal will begin receiving compensation by the end of 2024. 

This follows the final report of the Infected Blood Inquiry, which exposed the devastating impact of contaminated blood products that caused HIV and hepatitis C infections from the 1970s to the 1990s. More than 3,000 people died, and an estimated 30,000 NHS patients were affected. 

Claims Media reported back in June that the government’s own calculations estimate that potential payouts could reach up to £2.6 million.  

A proposed compensation scheme, based on recommendations from Sir Robert Francis, has been largely accepted by the current government. It proposes additional payments for those involved in unethical research, and those who were children at the time.  

Regulations establishing the scheme are expected to be introduced by 24 August 2024, meaning payments could begin before the year ends. Additional regulations will be rolled out in 2025 for the families of victims. 

The government’s approach also includes maintaining existing support payments for life, addressing concerns about financial security for victims. 

Des Collins,  senior partner of Collins Solicitors, represents some 1,500 victims of the Infected Blood Scandal and their families. He commented, “We broadly welcome the Government’s endorsement of Sir Robert Francis’ recommendations for compensation and look forward to regulations being laid down next week. 

 “It is clearly good news that the scheme will be up and running by October and ready to receive applications from the infected, both those living and from representatives of those now deceased. 

“It is somewhat surprising that those affected will need to wait longer than those infected to make an application but at least there is a guide on timescale. 

Collins also emphasised the importance of independent legal advice for claimants, given the historical challenges with similar compensation schemes: “Experience shows that government compensation schemes are notoriously complicated, often containing needlessly complex barriers to access, as those affected by the Windrush and Post Office scandals can attest.   

“The infected blood community are now assured of informed and independent legal support going forward which for many will be a great relief.” 

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Josie Miller Josie is an editor for Claims Media. She welcomes feedback, comments, and opinion at josie.miller@barkerbrooks.co.uk