The UK government offers a significant one-off payment of up to £120,000 to those who experience severe side effects from certain vaccines. This payment, designed to support individuals who suffer life-altering disabilities due to vaccination, aims to provide financial relief in cases of rare but serious adverse reactions.
While vaccines are generally considered safe and are crucial in preventing a range of infectious diseases, there are cases where side effects can lead to significant health complications. For those affected, the Vaccine Damage Payment (VDP) offers a potential financial safety net. This article explores the eligibility criteria for the £120,000 payment and outlines the process of applying for it.
Who Is Eligible for the Vaccine Damage Payment?
According to the UK government, individuals who have developed severe disabilities due to a qualifying vaccine may be entitled to a one-off payment. The key condition for eligibility is that the individual must be classified as “severely disabled,” which is defined as having a disability level of at least 60%. The disability can be either physical or mental, and medical evidence from a healthcare professional must support the claim.
A wide range of vaccines qualify for this scheme, including those for Covid-19, measles, tetanus, and influenza, as well as others such as polio and HPV. However, the vaccine must have been administered in the UK or the Isle of Man, unless the person was part of a military vaccination programme. Furthermore, the vaccine must generally have been given before the recipient’s 18th birthday, unless there was an outbreak of disease that necessitated a vaccination outside of this age group.
How to Apply for the Payment
The process of applying for a Vaccine Damage Payment is straightforward, though specific time limits apply. For those aged over 18, applications can be made directly to the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) either online or by post. However, if the claimant is under 18, an application can only be made once they reach the age of two.
Adults can apply for the payment up to the age of 21 or within six years of receiving the vaccine, whichever period is longer. If the recipient is unable to manage their own affairs, payments will be made to a trustee. It’s important to note that the Vaccine Damage Payment is not a compensation scheme. Individuals can still pursue further legal action for compensation, should they choose to do so.
The Vaccine Damage Payment scheme provides an important financial lifeline for those whose lives have been severely impacted by rare vaccine side effects. By offering this payment, the UK government recognises the extraordinary circumstances faced by those affected, while also acknowledging that vaccine safety remains a priority for public health.
