There has recently been a public enquiry into infected blood products administered to patients by the NHS in the 1970s and 1980s. Public inquiries are set up by the government to investigate events which have or could cause public concern.
The numbers of people, both adults and children, from all walks of life, who were infected by Hepatitis or HIV from clotting factor or transfused blood runs into thousands.
The problem stems from when Britain was struggling to keep up with demand for blood and so supplies were imported from the US. Much of the human blood plasma used to make the product came from donors such as prison inmates, who sold their blood.
There are over 800 claimants that are currently pursuing legal action as they feel that they or their loved ones have been affected by these blood products.
The public inquiry could last more than two years.
If the inquiry finds culpability, it opens the door to victims seeking compensation through the courts.
If you think that you may have been affected by this issue, please contact us for legal advice.
Natalie Nolan, Trainee Solicitor
Waldrons Solicitors
