Contaminated blood compensation claims for people nearing end of life to be prioritised

Written by Sam Wilson, April 17, 2025

This week the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) has announced a new process for infected people nearing the end of life to apply for their compensation claim to be prioritised and started now.

They have written to people this week by email or letter to all people currently registered with one of the infected blood support schemes setting out the process for applying to start their claim now if they meet certain criteria.

Before IBCA can start an end of life compensation claim, they will confirm basic information which will include name and date of birth. They will also ask for some information that shows the person might have 12 months or less to live. This information could include:

  • an existing letter from a medical professional such as a doctor, registered nurse or consultant
  • an SR1, DS1500 or BASRiS form which shows the person has applied to get a benefit more quickly because they’re near end of life (sometimes called ‘special rules’)

IBCA can support people in sourcing this information if they want.

Once an application for prioritisation has been made it will be reviewed and responded to in five working days to either accept or reject the application for prioritisation, or to ask for more information.

If accepted for prioritisation people will be referred to an IBCA claims manager who will follow the standard claims process. Applicants will be helped to nominate a representative to engage with IBCA on their behalf if they want. This can either be an official legal representative such as someone with lasting power of attorney or an informal representative such as a friend or family member.

The Haemophilia Society is continuing to fight for full and fair compensation for everyone that reflects the impact of treatment with contaminated blood products on people’s health and lives. We have been working with IBCA and raising concerns directly with the Cabinet Office and with MPs and Peers through the APPG on Haemophilia and Contaminated Blood and will keep you updated.

You can contact us at [email protected]