Responding to the latest Government announcement regarding the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme, Des Collins, Senior Partner of Collins Solicitors (and legal adviser to some 1500 victims and families involved in the infected blood scandal) has the following comment:

“We broadly welcome the Government’s endorsement of Sir Robert Francis’ recommendations for compensation and look forward to regulations being laid down next week to formally establish the Infected Blood Compensation Authority and enable the Compensation Scheme to commence work.

“Our clients are thankful that the recent change of Government has not disrupted the timetable set by the Victims and Prisoners Act and recognise the work Sir Robert and others are undertaking to make long-promised compensation a practical reality.

“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.

“We now need to consider the details of the scheme with each of our clients to determine how they navigate the process and claim their entitlement. We are heartened to see a provision for victims to receive independent legal advice to help them in this respect. 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.

“Finally we are also pleased to see Sir Robert has recommended a review mechanism so that the design and mechanics of the scheme can be adjusted after a year if flaws become apparent. This is important if, for any reason, the scheme fails to meet objectives for the community it is intended to serve.

“As lead claimant legal advisors at the Inquiry, Collins Solicitors will now be working with clients in the weeks ahead to ensure they receive fair compensation without further delay.”

ENDS
Issued by Bell Yard Communications: BellYard@Bell-Yard.com
Melanie Riley Tel: +44 (0) 7775 591244

Notes to Editors

The Infected Blood Inquiry, chaired by Sir Brian Langstaff, was the UK’s largest ever statutory inquiry. It began in July 2018 to examine the circumstances in which patients treated by the NHS in the 1970s and 80s became infected with HIV and Hepatitis due to treatment involving infected blood products. The Inquiry Final Report was published on 20 May 2024.