BASW Statement on Infected Blood Inquiry final report

Statement from the British Association of Social Workers (BASW) in response to the infected blood scandal inquiry findings.

The release of the final report from the Infected Blood Inquiry marks a significant moment for the victims, families, and friends who have long been fighting for justice.

It is a shameful place in history that our state took so long to initiate a public inquiry. The report brings much-needed validation to many who have campaigned tirelessly. The five-year investigation highlights repeated cover ups and failures by the UK Government and the NHS, resulting in over 30,000 people being infected with contaminated blood between 1971 and 1991.

While a price cannot fully right the wrongs of such an injustice it is appropriate that the UK Government is committing to a compensation scheme.

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Considering the report’s release, BASW England wishes to reaffirm its unwavering support for the Hillsborough Law Now campaign of which it is a formal supporter. The campaign advocates for a duty of candour among public servants during all public inquiries and criminal investigations. This commitment is crucial to ensuring justice in the face of such scandals.