Interferon Treatment Impacts
People infected with Hepatitis B or C who have received a course of treatment with or based on interferon should be recognised as entitled to core awards at Level 3.
How was this assessed?
Response
Accepted in Part
Response
Accepted in PartThe impact of interferon treatment on those infected with Hepatitis B or C often resulted in severe side effects, both psychological and physical. The Inquiry recommended that more be done to recognise the impact of interferon in the scheme. The Inquiry proposed that interferon could be better recognised by moving all those who received it to the equivalent of Cirrhosis Level 3 band. Alternatively the Inquiry suggested the Government could introduce a new infection severity band, between Level 2 (Chronic) and Level 3 (Cirrhosis). The Government proposes to introduce a new core route infection severity band for those who received interferon treatment, to be referred to as Level 2B. The Government will consult on the proposed awards for Level 2B to ensure these properly reflect the impacts of interferon treatment.
Published Evidence
Published assessments of implementation progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Check the source type badge to see whether each assessment is independent or government self-reported.
As of 13 January 2026: 3,721 people asked to start claims, 3,546 begun process, 3,074 received offers totalling £2.47bn, 2,861 paid totalling £1.89bn. Third compensation regulations in force 31 December 2025.
View detailed findings
IBCA exceeded initial expectations. Three sets of regulations now in force covering infected persons, affected persons, and supplementary routes. £11.8bn committed in October 2024 Budget. Independent review found "very creditable progress."
IBCA has contacted 2,215 people to begin compensation claims; 1,934 started process. £812m+ paid via Horizon Shortfall Scheme. £11.8bn committed in Autumn Budget.
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IBCA exceeded expectations for first cohort and established operational service with "compassionate ethos." Target: bulk of infected payments by 2027, affected by 2029. Third compensation scheme regulations came into law 31 December 2025.