Mabon ap Gwynfor, Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government remains committed to supporting those affected by the Infected Blood scandal and recognises the profound and lifelong impact it has had on individuals and their families. We continue to work closely with the UK Government, the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA), the Wales Infected Blood Support Scheme (WIBSS), and representatives of the infected blood community to help ensure that compensation is delivered as swiftly and fairly as possible.
Responsibility for Recommendation 1 ‘Compensation’ is with the UK Government, and the administration of the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme sits with the IBCA, which is a UK-wide body. The Welsh Government’s assessment is that progress has been made in establishing the scheme and commencing compensation payments; however, we recognise the concerns expressed by many affected beneficiaries regarding the pace at which claims are being processed and payments made. IBCA has itself acknowledged the need to continue increasing the speed and scale of delivery while maintaining confidence in the process.
Officials are in regular contact with UK Government counterparts and with IBCA on matters relating to compensation and support for our beneficiaries. We continue to seek assurance that the scheme is operating effectively and that our claimants can access the support they need throughout the claims process. We also emphasise the importance of ongoing engagement with affected communities and representative organisations.
I am aware of concerns raised recently and I have written to Nick Thomas-Symonds, Minister for the Cabinet Office, regarding delays in the compensation process and aspects of claim administration. We understand the frustration of those who have already waited decades for recognition and redress. Where concerns are raised with us, they are shared with the UK Government, including IBCA at officials’ regular meetings, this ensures that claimants’ experiences inform the continuing development of the scheme.
The Welsh Government remains committed to ensuring that those affected receive both compensation and wider support without unnecessary delay. Through WIBSS, support continues to be available to our beneficiaries, while compensation arrangements are delivered through IBCA.
We fully recognise that no amount of compensation can undo the harm caused by this scandal. Nevertheless, it is essential that those infected and affected receive the compensation, recognition and support to which they are entitled, and the Welsh Government will continue to press for progress towards that aim.