Redditch MP calls for victims’ voices to remain central in Infected Blood Compensation Scheme

REDDITCH MP Chris Bloore has called for the voices of victims and their families to remain at the heart of the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme, warning that the impact of the scandal will not end with financial redress alone.

The infected blood scandal, widely regarded as the worst treatment disaster in NHS history, saw thousands of patients given contaminated blood products in the 1970s and 1980s, resulting in life-changing illness and loss for many families.

Speaking in the House of Commons during a statement on the compensation scheme, Mr Bloore highlighted the lasting damage suffered by those affected and pressed the Government on how it will ensure their experiences continue to shape support as people rebuild their lives.

He said: “I thank the Minister for his work alongside Sir Brian Langstaff and victims to deliver on the inquiry’s recommendations.

“Noting the incredible damage that has been done to many of our constituents’ lives as they try to return to normality, may I ask the Minister to outline further how we will ensure that the community’s voice will continue to be heard, bearing in mind that the challenges caused by this injustice will not suddenly stop, even if those people are awarded compensation?”

In response, the Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office confirmed that a formal feedback mechanism will be in place to ensure concerns raised by victims are treated with sensitivity and seriousness and escalated where necessary, including to the Infected Blood Compensation Authority and the Cabinet Office.

The MP welcomed this assurance but stressed the importance of ongoing engagement with those affected.

He added: “This is one of the gravest injustices in our country’s history. Compensation is a vital step towards justice but it cannot be the end of the conversation.

“People’s lives were shattered over decades and the road back to normality is long. We must make sure victims and their families continue to be heard at every stage and that support remains responsive to the challenges they still face.”