Bespoke Psychological Service
I recommend that without delay steps be taken to provide a bespoke psychological service in England.
How was this assessed?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedWith respect to recommendations 15 and 17 of the Second Interim Report, the Government acknowledges the immense psychological harm that has been caused as a result of this scandal, and is committed to offering psychological support to those impacted by this scandal. Bespoke psychological support for the infected and affected people is already offered in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. In England, the Infected Blood Psychological Service began supporting its first patients in some parts of the country in late August 2024, with providers building up capacity over the following six months until they are up and running in all areas of England in Spring 2025. The Government also recognises the need to support applicants through the process of claiming compensation, and as such, the IBCA aims to ensure that appropriate advice and support is available to assist people awarded compensation to manage their compensation awards, access financial services, and access benefits advice where relevant.
NHS England has implemented enhanced psychological support services for those affected by the infected blood scandal. Dedicated services are available through the NHS.
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."
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.
View detailed findings
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.