The Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) was established following a May inquiry that revealed the NHS and government failed to adequately support victims of the contaminated blood scandal.

Over 30,000 individuals infected with contaminated blood during NHS treatments from the 1970s to early 1990s will be eligible for compensation.

This tragic scandal resulted in approximately 3,000 deaths and 30,000 infections from HIV, hepatitis, or both due to contaminated blood transfusions.

The government expects the IBCA to begin making payments by the end of 2024, with compensation commencing in 2025 for affected individuals and their partners.

Campaigner Jason Evans, whose father died from contaminated blood, described the compensation scheme as a 'massive step forward' and a fair resolution for victims.

The government acknowledged the long-lasting impact of the scandal, stating that lives have been shattered and justice denied for decades.

Paymaster General Nick Thomas-Symonds expressed pride in signing the documents that allow the IBCA to award compensation.

The compensation scheme aims to provide support without requiring victims to navigate the court system, streamlining the process for those affected.

A policy paper released by the Cabinet Office outlines a tariff-based compensation scheme, detailing the criteria for the first payouts.

Compensation awards will consider various factors, including injury, social impact, suffering, care costs, and financial losses, with potential awards ranging from £35,500 to £2,735,000.

Concerns have been raised regarding disparities in compensation amounts for different diseases, prompting advocates to call for equitable treatment.

While the establishment of the IBCA is welcomed, there are ongoing concerns about compensation disparities and the profound impact of hepatitis on patients' lives.