This week marks an important development for families affected by sodium valproate exposure in pregnancy.
As reported by ITV News Granada, the Health Secretary has publicly committed to introducing a compensation scheme for those harmed by sodium valproate before the next General Election.
For families affected by Fetal Valproate Spectrum Disorder (FVSD), this marks a significant moment and brings cautious hope.
“Given how long families have campaigned for justice, I can well understand why and they are critical, having waited so long and I have got to take that criticism on the chin.
“I am sorry to families that they have waiting so long. I am asking them to bare with me but we will get there.” Wes Streeting – Secretary of State for Health and Social Care
However, it is important to be clear about the timeline. Families have not been waiting two years for justice. It has been eight years since the Cumberlege Review was first commissioned and 6 years since its publication which confirmed that the healthcare system failed to properly warn women of the serious risks associated with sodium valproate in pregnancy. If we look back further to the collapsed Product Liability and Clinical Negligence legal actions, families have in reality been fighting for accountability and redress for well over a decade.
This context matters.
Last week’s Westminster Hall Debate led by Sarah Green MP , the response left many families disappointed. There was a sense that urgency was still missing. Against that devastating response, this latest commitment represents a notable shift. It signals recognition that financial redress must now move from discussion to delivery.
At INFACT, we welcome this commitment. We recognise the strength, resilience and persistence of families whose voices have driven this change. Without their determination, we would not be at this point.
We will continue to engage constructively to ensure that:
- The compensation scheme is fair and transparent
- Payments reflect the lifelong and complex needs of affected individuals
- The process is timely and does not place further burden on families
- Clear timelines and implementation details are published without delay
Families have carried the emotional, physical and financial impact of this harm for far too long. Many children are now adults living with significant disabilities. Parents are ageing. The need for certainty and practical support is urgent.
This announcement is progress. It must now lead to action.
We remain committed to standing beside and supporting every family until justice is fully achieved.
INFACT 