Upcoming Report from the Infected Blood Memorial Committee
The Infected Blood Memorial Committee is set to release its inaugural report, anticipated to be available by mid-January 2027. This document will encapsulate the Committee’s activities over the past year and outline preliminary recommendations for a permanent memorial in the UK dedicated to those affected by infected blood.
The report will introduce five guiding principles along with proposed sites for the memorial, as well as plans for a digital memorial. It is crucial that all decisions regarding the memorial are deeply informed by the insights and feedback gathered from the infected blood community. Thus, this report will act as a platform to collect final opinions from the community prior to submitting formal recommendations to Cabinet Office Ministers.
Community Engagement and Feedback Opportunities
To facilitate community input, there will be a three-week window for feedback commencing on the day the report is published. It is essential that every member of the community has the chance to peruse the report and express their opinions. To ensure inclusivity, both digital and non-digital avenues for participation will be available.
Digital Participation Options
Individuals will be able to access the report online through the Committee’s webpages. An online feedback mechanism will also be provided via a Smart Survey, which will become accessible on the day of the report’s release. Additionally, a concise two-page infographic summarising the key points will be available for easy reference.
Non-Digital Alternatives: Postal Pack Request
Recognising that not everyone may be comfortable with or have consistent access to digital resources, the Committee offers the option to request a physical postal pack prior to the report’s publication. This pack will be dispatched on the publication day and will include:
- A printed copy of the report
- A paper version of the feedback survey
- A pre-paid envelope to facilitate the return of responses at no cost
Further details on how to request this postal pack will be shared in the coming weeks. Additionally, friends and family members are encouraged to assist those in the community who may be less familiar with digital tools in accessing the report and completing the feedback survey.
Distribution of Physical Copies
Once the report is published, physical copies of the materials will be made available at various locations, including haemophilia centres throughout the UK, Infected Blood Psychological Service (IBPS) centres, and other relevant sites.
Support Services and Contact Information
The Committee acknowledges that engaging with matters of memorialisation can evoke strong emotions and may be challenging for some individuals. Therefore, comprehensive and historically informed psychological services related to infected blood are available across the UK through self-referral.