Wider Definition of Unethical Research
When considering the evidence IBCA applies the wider definition of research explained in the Infected Blood Inquiry Additional Report chapter on Unethical Research.
- The Government stated in July 2025 that it accepted this recommendation in principle and would apply the wider definition of research as explained in the Additional Report when consulting on the unethical research award (Infected Blood Inquiry Additional Report: Government Response, Cabinet Office, July 2025).
- A consultation on proposed changes to the infected blood compensation scheme was opened on 24 November 2025 (Consultation: Proposed Changes to the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme, Cabinet Office, November 2025).
- The government stated that claimants would not need to prove participation in a specific medical trial and that the award would be available to patients treated for a bleeding disorder before 1986 (Government Response to Consultation on Changes to the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme, Cabinet Office, 14 April 2026).
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted in Part
Response
Accepted in PartThe Government accepts this recommendation in principle and will consult on providing an award for unethical research victims applying the wider definition of research as explained in the Additional Report.
Progress Timeline
This means people will not have to prove they were part of a specific medical trial, but instead the award will be available to all patients treated for a bleeding disorder before 1986.
14 April 2026 update: Government response (CP 1565) adjusts the date range captured by the Unethical Research award to reflect evidence provided in the consultation. A new Unethical Research award for children is also introduced: "people who were treated for a bleeding disorder in childhood will receive a higher Unethical Research award than those who were treated in adulthood." Sources: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/changes-to-infected-blood-compensation-scheme-will-improve-support-for-victims; https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/69ddf5fd7e2086c62da2f152/Government_response_to_consultation_on_proposed_changes_to_the_infected_blood_compensation_scheme__PDF_.pdf
Published Evidence
Published assessments of progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Source type badge indicates 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."