The government has announced plans to overhaul the Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS), which provides financial support to individuals harmed by Covid vaccines, following criticism in the UK Covid Inquiry’s fourth report led by Baroness Hallett.
The VDPS has received more than 24,000 Covid-related claims since its establishment, but just over 1% have resulted in one-off tax-free awards of £120,000. The inquiry identified significant concerns with the current system, particularly the requirement that claimants demonstrate at least “60% disability” to qualify for support. Baroness Hallett’s report called for “urgent” reform, describing the scheme as “not sufficiently supportive” for those affected by Covid vaccines.
In its official response, the government stated it is committed to reviewing the scheme to ensure it functions as “fit for purpose and delivered effectively.” English ministers pledged to collaborate with other UK nations and with individuals injured by the Covid vaccine and their families throughout the reform process. The response also acknowledged concerns regarding the scheme’s operating costs.
Campaign group Vaccine Injured and Bereaved UK welcomed the government’s recognition that vaccine injury and bereavement are genuine concerns and that the current scheme requires reform. However, the organization expressed disappointment that the commitment remains preliminary rather than concrete. The group stated it sought explicit action commitments rather than further review, noting the absence of a clear timetable, specific details about proposed changes, or assurances regarding implementation timelines.
Financial data revealed that since April 2022, the VDPS has cost £83m to operate. Administrative and medical assessment costs exceeded £32m, more than double the £32m distributed to victims during the same period. The government indicated it would ensure proper operation of the scheme moving forward.
Article Attribution | Read More at Article Source
Article summary produced by Claude AI