GPs can now refer contaminated blood-affected patients for psychological treatment
Patients across England who were affected and infected by the contaminated blood scandal will now have access to bespoke psychological treatment.
The Infected Blood Psychological Service first opened last September after a recommendation from the interim inquiry but was rolled out in phases.
Those eligible for the service also include bereaved partners, parents, children, and their extended families – can refer themselves by phone or be referred by their GP, NHS England said.
In all 16 specialist providers will provide access to talking therapies, peer support and psychosocial support, as well as other treatments for those with physical or mental health needs.
Patients will be able to access virtual peer support forums, through the service, to connect with others who have been infected or affected. For some there may also be the option of regional in-person networks.
The NHS service will also offer additional social support to individuals in other areas of their lives, such as with benefits, housing services or employment and financial advice, NHS England said.
Figures suggest 150 individuals have accessed the since September 2024, which at first was offered to those already known to providers.
The Infected Blood Inquiry’s Second Interim Report in April 2023 recommended that a bespoke psychological support service was set up.
In May, GPs were asked to identify undiagnosed patients affected by the contaminated blood scandal.
GP practices should ask new patients registering with them if they had a blood transfusion before 1996, with those who did then being offered a test for Hepatitis C.
NHS England issued new guidance to GPs on introducing the new questions, capturing respondents and supporting patients where infection risk is identified.
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS co-national medical director (secondary care), said: ‘Our thoughts remain with everyone infected and affected by the contaminated blood scandal and I would like to reiterate our deepest apologies for the role the NHS played in their suffering and loss.
‘Following the recommendations of the Inquiry, this new service represents a vital step in ensuring patients and families affected in England can be offered tailored psychological treatment and support, and we are pleased that specialist clinics are now open in all areas of England.’
Dr Michelle Kilmurray, principal clinical psychologist for the Infected Blood Psychological Service at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘The impact of the infected blood scandal cannot be underestimated and continues to be felt today, both by those directly affected and by the families and communities who lost loved ones as a consequence.
‘The new service is here for all those who have been impacted by scandal and gives them access to a safe space, where they are listened to and understood. We work with people to create individual care plans to provide the best possible care.’
Patients can self-refer for treatment by calling 0300 131 0444 or find out more information at https://infectedbloodpsychologicalservice.nhs.uk/
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