The Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) is set to begin making payments by the end of the year to victims and families affected by the contaminated blood scandal. The scheme was established following a public inquiry that revealed failures by the government, health service, and doctors in the handling of the crisis.
Jason Evans, whose father died from contaminated blood, praised the scheme as a “massive step forward” and a fair compensation measure. The scandal resulted in around 3,000 deaths and 30,000 infections of HIV, hepatitis, or both in the 1970s-80s due to contaminated transfusions.
While previous support schemes were insufficient, the new scheme may cost the government up to £10 billion. Payments will be based on recommendations from the infected blood inquiry, with categories for different diseases and circumstances.
Nick Thomas-Symonds of the Cabinet Office expressed pride in establishing the scheme and highlighted the long overdue justice for victims. However, concerns have been raised by the Hepatitis C Trust regarding disparities in compensation for different diseases, urging the government not to underestimate the impact of hepatitis on individuals’ lives.
The government hopes the scheme will provide due compensation without the need for legal battles. Details of the scheme are still being examined, but overall, it represents progress in addressing the decades-long struggle for justice for those affected by the infected blood scandal.
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