Tariff-Based Compensation Framework
I recommend that the Government should approve a scheme setting out a framework of tariff based compensation for eligible infected and affected persons, at rates which broadly take account of but are not limited by current practice in courts and tribunals across the UK and sums payable in other UK compensation schemes, and allowing an assessed basis for defined financial losses. The rates of compensation should be based on the advice of the independent clinical and legal panels and set by the scheme.
How was this assessed?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedIn line with recommendation 8 of the Second Interim Report, the Scheme will use a tariff-based framework to calculate the amount of compensation payable to those eligible. In practice, this means that compensation will be calculated based on set criteria and rates. Using a tariff approach will minimise the amount of information that people applying to the Scheme are required to provide. It will also help to ensure that compensation can be awarded more quickly than would otherwise be possible if all applications for compensation had to be individually assessed. The tariffs have been informed, but not limited by, current practice in UK courts and tribunals. The Expert Group has advised the Government on the tariff rates in the course of their work, which Ministers decided on and set in accordance with the principles on managing public money. This deviates slightly from the Report's recommendation, which advised that tariffs should be set by the Scheme.
The scheme uses a tariff-based framework with rates informed by court practice and other compensation schemes. Independent panels advised on appropriate rates. The scheme provides both core tariff awards and supplementary assessed awards for financial losses.
Progress Timeline
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."
Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 established IBCA. Three sets of scheme regulations in force (Aug 2024, Mar 2025, Dec 2025). First payments December 2024. £1.89bn paid to 2,861 people by January 2026.
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.
Infected Blood Compensation Authority established August 2024. First claims for deceased infected/affected opened December 2025. IBCA accepted all 11 recommendations directed to them.