Published 26 October 2026
We are explaining our approach to how we will handle claims relating to people who died after being infected with HIV through treatment with Factor VIII or IX between 1978 and 1985.
Research suggests that people infected with HIV this way during this period are also very likely to have been infected with hepatitis C at the same time. But for these people, the evidence needed to confirm a hepatitis C co-infection often doesn't exist.
What's changing
To make sure these claims are treated fairly, we have agreed that claims managers can now decide, on the balance of probabilities, that a hepatitis C co-infection occurred, where a claim relates to a deceased infected person who:
- had a confirmed, eligible HIV infection
- had confirmed treatment with Factor VIII or IX between 1978 and 1985, which caused the HIV infection
- died in 2011 or earlier, and
- has no information on file suggesting they were not infected with hepatitis C, such as negative test results
This decision must be supported by evidence that satisfies these conditions, such as National Haemophilia Database data or treatment records.
Why we're making this change
This approach reflects the recommendations of the Infected Blood Inquiry. It allows claims managers to take a holistic and fair view, weighing up all the evidence available, rather than requiring direct proof of a diagnosis that may never have existed or has since been destroyed.
This approach also recognises the unique and devastating circumstances faced by those infected with HIV and HCV through treatment with Factor VIII or IX in a time before effective treatment or testing were available.
What this means if you've already been paid compensation
If a deceased infected claim affected by this change has already been compensated on the basis of HIV mono-infection, it will be reviewed to make sure the person's estate receives the correct amount of compensation they're entitled to.
Based on our current understanding of the deceased infected service, we believe only a small number of claims will need to be reviewed.
You do not need to do anything, we will contact you if this applies to your claim.
This policy does not apply to living infected claims, because HIV and hepatitis C testing is now widely accessible.
What this means for your claim
Every claim is different, so we'll look at each one individually. This makes sure you receive the right amount of compensation for your specific circumstances.
If you're making a claim, or supporting someone who is, and you have questions about how this applies to a specific case, your claim manager will discuss this with you once it's been confirmed whether the policy applies.
If you're concerned that you may not have enough information to show that an eligible infection has occurred, your claim manager will help you understand what this might mean for your individual claim.