Billions set aside, but who is entitled to claim? Understanding the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme

In the late 20^th century, tens of thousands of people receiving NHS treatment for conditions such as haemophilia or undergoing blood transfusions were unknowingly infected with contaminated blood products. These products carried harmful viruses, including HIV and Hepatitis C.

The exact number of those infected remains unclear, estimates suggest that over 30,000 people were infected, and tragically, more than 3,000 have since died. Decades later, a long-overdue process of acknowledgement and compensation is finally underway.

A long-awaited inquiry

In 2018, the Infected Blood Inquiry was launched and brought renewed public focus to the scandal. The government shortly after established the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) to manage and distribute compensation to victims and their families.

Initially, only a limited group of infected individuals could apply for compensation. The scheme has since expanded significantly, allowing many more people to submit claims.

Are you eligible to claim compensation?

Those who may be entitled to compensation include:-

• Individuals directly infected through contaminated NHS blood or blood products
• Family members and carers affected by the scandal, including partners, children, parents and siblings
• Estates of infected individuals who have since passed away

How much compensation could you receive?

The UK Government has set aside £11.8 billion to fund compensation for those infected or affected. Entitlement will be calculated based on five key factors:

1. Harm caused by the infection
2. Social impact, such as stigma or isolation
3. Loss of autonomy and private life
4. Costs of care required due to the infection
5. Financial losses, including income loss and other economic impacts

The amount of compensation that claimants may receive varies depending on each person’s unique situation. A person infected with HIV may receive up to £2.6 million, and a person with Hepatitis C might be eligible for up to £810,000.

Compensation scheme status

Hundreds of millions have already been paid out and hundreds of claimants have received their entitlement. As of 19 June 2025, the IBCA reported that:-

• 462 claimants had received offers totalling over £395 million
• 310 claimants had received payments totalling over £231 million

In March, a compensation calculator was released to help those directly infected (and their Estates), estimate potential compensation payouts. As of June, it has been updated to include those affected by the scandal such as family members of infected persons, helping yet more people understand what they may be entitled to.

Get an estimate of your compensation – IBCA

Note: The calculator is a helpful guide, not the official start of your claim

Navigating the Claims Process

While the launch of the IBCA marks an important step toward accountability, the claims process remains complex. Multiple claim types, varying eligibility, and highly individualised payout calculations can make it a challenging process to navigate.

Many families may require to submit multiple claims in order to pursue both the entitlement due to the infected person or their Estate and to affected persons. This may feel overwhelming, especially for those already carrying years of emotional burden.

For this reason, seeking legal advice is highly recommended. A professional can help you:

• Understand your eligibility
• Maximise the compensation you are entitle to
• Minimise the paperwork and stress during an already difficult time

Whether you were directly infected, lost a loved one or were otherwise affected by the Infected Blood Scandal, we can help you navigate the claim with compassion, professionalism and care.