Infected Blood Inquiry

The **Infected Blood Inquiry** is an independent public inquiry established to investigate the use of contaminated blood and blood products in the UK, which resulted in thousands of people being infected with viruses such as **hepatitis C (HCV)** and **HIV**. This inquiry aimed to uncover the circumstances and consequences of these infections, provide justice for the victims, and offer recommendations to prevent such a tragedy from happening again.

The inquiry is chaired by **Sir Brian Langstaff** and was announced by the UK Government in **2017**. It covers events from the 1970s onwards, focusing on how contaminated blood and blood products were used in the treatment of NHS patients, the impact on those infected and affected, and the subsequent response from health authorities and government bodies.

A significant part of the inquiry's work has been to gather evidence from individuals who were directly affected, as well as from healthcare professionals, policy-makers, and experts in blood safety. Public hearings have been held across the UK, providing a platform for testimonies from victims and their families. These testimonies have revealed the devastating personal and social impacts of the infections, including severe health complications, stigma, and the loss of loved ones.

One of the central issues examined by the inquiry is the failure to properly screen and test blood donations for viruses, which led to the widespread use of contaminated blood products. The inquiry also investigated the delays in introducing effective safety measures and the apparent lack of transparency and accountability from those in charge of managing blood supplies.

The inquiry has highlighted systemic failures within the healthcare system, including inadequate regulation, poor communication, and insufficient support for those affected. It has also shed light on the struggles faced by victims in securing financial compensation and recognition of their suffering.

The inquiry has made **12 main recommendations** to address the issues identified. These recommendations focus on improving blood safety, enhancing the support and compensation provided to victims, and ensuring greater transparency and accountability within the healthcare system. Specific measures include the establishment of a new, independent body to oversee blood safety, the creation of a comprehensive compensation scheme for those infected and affected, and the implementation of robust systems for monitoring and responding to emerging threats to blood safety.

The **Infected Blood Inquiry** has taken approximately **7 years** (84 months) and is estimated to have cost around **£27 million**. Its findings and recommendations aim to ensure that the tragic events related to contaminated blood are never repeated, and that justice is provided to those who have suffered as a result.