People affected by the contaminated blood scandal in England can self-refer for psychological treatment from a new NHS service as of today.
The service, which began treating its first patients last September, will include access to talking therapies, peer support and psychosocial support, as well as other treatments for those with physical or mental health needs.
Following a phased roll-out, the Infected Blood Psychological Service is now open in all areas of England and is being hosted by 16 specialist providers.
In the rollout phase, the service was offered to those already known to providers, with about 150 individuals accessing it since September 2024.
It is now available to anyone infected by the contaminated blood scandal as well as bereaved partners, parents, children, and their extended families. Patients can self-refer by phone or be referred to the service by their GP or other specialist services.
Eligible individuals will be offered a comprehensive psychological review with a psychologist or psychological therapist with specialist expertise in issues facing those infected or affected by contaminated blood or blood products, which will help guide tailored mental health care plans.
As part of the service, patients can access virtual peer support forums to connect with others who have been affected by the contaminated blood scandal, as well as regional in-person networks.
Through new regional navigators, 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.
Claire Murdoch, NHS national mental health director, said that the service had been ‘co-designed with members of the infected blood community to ensure the best and most personalised care possible’.
The service follows the recommendation by Sir Brian Langstaff in the Infected Blood Inquiry’s second interim report in April 2023, which set out the need for a bespoke psychological support service in 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.’
She added: ‘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.’
Those affected by the contaminated blood scandal can self-refer for treatment by calling 0300 131 0444 or visit the website.
