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Family members left bereaved as a result of the NHS contaminated blood scandal have until the end of the month to claim backdated support payments.

The contaminated blood scandal affected between 5,000 and 30,000 people in the 1970s and 1980s, and has been referred to as ‘the worst treatment disaster in NHS history’. Around 3,000 people died as a result.

Last year, the Welsh Government announced financial support for the bereaved would be extended to provide 100% of the infected beneficiaries’ rate for the first year, followed by 75% in following years.

However, to be able to have this backdated to April 2019, those claiming will have to apply by March 31 this year.

The tax-free payments increase each year in line with the cost of living, and range from around £14,000 to up to £34,000 annually.

Anyone eligible who comes forward to claim after April 1 will still be able to claim, but will not have payments backdated to 2019.

Wales’ Health Minister, Eluned Morgan, urged those eligible to come forward. She said: “In recent months we have made significant progress in providing improved financial support for those infected and affected by contaminated blood.

“I am aware however that there may still be some people who have not come forward to apply for the support they need and deserve in recognition of the devastating impact this has had on their lives.”

Information about the Wales Infected Blood Support Scheme can be found online.