The Government has today opened applications for £100,000 interim compensation payments to the estates of individuals who died as a result of the Infected Blood Scandal.
This move follows a series of recommendations and reports from the Infected Blood Inquiry, which has been investigating the scandal since its inception in 2017.
Background of the Infected Blood Scandal
The Infected Blood Scandal, one of the most egregious medical tragedies in UK history, involved the transfusion of contaminated blood and blood products to thousands of patients, primarily those with haemophilia, in the 1970s and 1980s.
This led to many contracting HIV and/or Hepatitis C, resulting in widespread suffering and numerous deaths.
The Infected Blood Inquiry and Payments
Chaired by Sir Brian Langstaff, a former High Court judge, the Infected Blood Inquiry was launched in July 2017 to examine the circumstances surrounding the scandal. The inquiry has published several interim reports, each recommending immediate and substantial compensation for those affected.
In October 2022, the government made the first set of interim compensation payments of £100,000 to living infected beneficiaries and bereaved partners registered with the UK Infected Blood Support Schemes (UK IBSS).
These payments were tax-free and did not affect existing benefits or support payments.
Latest Developments
Following the publication of the Infected Blood Inquiry’s final report on 20 May 2024, the government announced additional interim compensation measures.
Living infected beneficiaries who were already registered with the UK IBSS or those who register before 31 March 2025 are now eligible for a further £210,000 payment, bringing the total interim compensation to £310,000.
Compensation for Estates
A key aspect of the latest announcement is the provision for interim payments to the estates of deceased infected beneficiaries.
These estates can now apply for £100,000, provided the deceased were registered with an existing UK IBSS or previous support schemes run by the Alliance House Organisations (AHO) before 17 April 2024.
This move addresses a critical gap in compensation, ensuring that families of those who have passed away due to the scandal are also recognized and supported.
Eligibility Criteria
All interim compensation payments are exempt from income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax, ensuring that recipients receive the full amount without any deductions.
Future Compensation Scheme
The government is establishing the Infected Blood Compensation Authority to administer a comprehensive compensation scheme. Led by Sir Robert Francis, who authored the independent review on compensation options, this authority will provide redress to those affected.
Specifically, the scheme will compensate partners, family members, and caregivers who supported infected individuals.
Government Apology and Commitment
On 20 May 2024, the then Prime Minister issued a formal apology on behalf of the government for the decades of suffering and injustice experienced by those affected by the scandal.
A Cabinet Office Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to making meaningful compensation and ensuring public recognition of the victims.
Quick View:
- Interim Payments: £100,000 to living infected beneficiaries and bereaved partners since October 2022.
- Additional Payments: £210,000 to living infected beneficiaries registered with UK IBSS by 31 March 2025.
- Estates: £100,000 interim payments to estates of deceased infected beneficiaries.
- Tax Exemptions: Payments are exempt from income, capital gains, and inheritance taxes.
- Future Scheme: Establishment of the Infected Blood Compensation Authority to administer a comprehensive compensation scheme.
In Conclusion
The UK Government’s interim compensation move for Infected Blood Scandal victims represents a significant step towards justice. Moreover, this breakthrough paves the way for comprehensive reparations.
As the government finalizes its compensation scheme, it must concurrently ensure all victims and families receive the support and compensation they deserve.
As Sir Brian Langstaff noted,
“many who should benefit from compensation are now on borrowed time.”
Sources: THX News, Cabinet Office & Infected Blood Compensation Authority
