On Monday, the final report from the public inquiry into the use of contaminated blood in UK hospitals during the 1980s will be published at Westminster’s Central Hall. The Infected Blood Inquiry, led by Sir Brian Langstaff, marks the culmination of a four-year investigation into one of the largest medical scandals in British post-war history.

The scandal involved around 30,000 people who received infected blood, leading to at least 3,000 deaths, primarily due to liver disease caused by hepatitis C and AIDS from HIV. The infected blood supply, largely sourced from paid donors including prison inmates and drug addicts in the United States, was used for transfusions and blood products such as Factor VIII, which is vital for haemophiliacs.

The inquiry examined millions of pieces of evidence, over 3,500 written statements, and testimonies from 370 witnesses. It revealed that patients and their families had endured significant suffering, with many continuing to face severe health uncertainties.

Victims and advocates have criticized the government and health authorities for failing to act on known risks associated with the contaminated blood supply. The report is expected to address compensation for victims and their families, who have endured decades of hardship and legal battles seeking justice.

Victims, such as those within a support group of “blood friends,” have shared harrowing experiences, including long periods of undiagnosed illness and the psychological impact of their conditions. The final report aims to provide a resolution to this tragic chapter, although some remain skeptical about whether full justice and adequate compensation will be achieved.