Victims of one of the worst treatment scandals in NHS history say they’re losing hope as the infected blood inquiry resumes hearings this May.
Over 30,000 people were infected with HIV or hepatitis through contaminated blood products during the 1970s and 1980s. More than 3,000 have since died, and survivors have spent decades fighting for justice and compensation.
Although a final report was published last May, and the government pledged £12 billion in compensation through a newly created Infected Blood Compensation Authority, victims say progress has stalled. As of mid-March, just 40 payments had been processed.
“Shambolic” Process Fuels Anger
The renewed hearings on 7 and 8 May were announced by Sir Brian Langstaff, the inquiry chair, in response to what he described as the “gravity” of concerns repeatedly raised by affected families and advocacy groups.
“People infected and affected do not have time on their side,” Sir Brian said.
“This isn’t just red tape—it’s lives on hold.”
Evidence submitted to the inquiry paints a picture of “chaotic” and “disorganised” meetings and communications from government officials. Much of the anger stems from missed deadlines, lack of transparency, and growing fears that many may not live to see full compensation.
Campaigners Losing Hope
Kate Burt, CEO of the Haemophilia Society, called the situation “unacceptable” and warned that “the contaminated blood community’s faith in the process is crumbling.”
The inquiry will hear from:
- Cabinet Office Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds
- Senior officials from the Infected Blood Compensation Authority
- Victims’ representatives and advocacy groups
Government: “Fully Committed”
A government spokesperson said it remains “fully committed” to following through on inquiry recommendations and acknowledged the suffering victims have endured.
While some initial payouts were made last year, full-scale compensation is not expected to be completed until 2029—a timeline victims say is far too long.
For many survivors and bereaved families, the latest hearings represent a last stand in a decades-long fight for accountability and justice.
