Infected Blood Compensation Scheme

Background.

The Scheme is a government-funded scheme designed to provide financial compensation to victims of infected blood in the UK.

This has arisen as a result of the Infected Blood Inquiry, which found that from the 1970’s, until 1991, over 30,000 NHS patients were given blood transfusions or treatments which used blood products infected with Hepatitis or HIV.

Who can claim?

The Scheme will recognise and provide financial compensation to victims of infected blood. There are 2 categories of victims:

1. Infected Persons – A person infected directly or indirectly with Hepatitis or HIV through the use of NHS supplied blood. An application can also be made on behalf of the estate of a directly infected person who is deceased. (Indirect infection includes those infected by transmission of infection from a person directly infected with NHS supplied blood products.)
2. Affected Persons – A person who has suffered the impact of infected blood through a relationship with an infected person. The classes of Affected Persons are wide and include partners, parents, children, siblings and carers. Relationships do not have to be biological and therefore step-siblings, adoptive parents, co-habiting partners etc. can claim.
   
   

How Can I Claim?

Claims must be made to the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA).

For those currently eligible, a claim must be made within 6 years of 1^st April 2025. For those infected after 1^st April 2025, there is a 6-year period in which to claim from the date of diagnosis.

All compensation payments made will be exempt from tax.

The IBCA is not yet operational, but updates can be viewed on their website. In the meantime, there are regional support schemes through which victims can obtain help and support.

Contact Us.

If you need any help or advice on the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme, please contact us here and Chris Kallis Solicitors and we’ll be happy to help.