£20m scheme brought in to help support thalidomide survivors

Published on Wednesday 23 December 2009 20:26

THE government has announced details of a £20 million support package to help thalidomide survivors.

The grant will be paid over three years to the Thalidomide Trust, which dispenses aid to people disabled by the drug.

A government apology for the suffering caused will also be issued in parliament next year.

Thalidomide survivors groups yesterday welcomed the move, describing it as "real benefit".

Pregnant women were prescribed the drug in the 1950s and 1960s as a treatment for morning sickness or insomnia.

It was withdrawn from sale in 1961, after the connection was made with babies who were born with limb deformities and other damage.

The drug's UK manufacturer, Distillers Biochemicals, paid about 28m in compensation in the 1970s following a legal battle by the families of those affected.

The new pilot scheme will give those suffering the effects of thalidomide more control over their long-term health needs, which are increasing as they grow older. Under the new settlement, the grant will be reviewed after three years.

Guy Tweedy, a campaigner for Thalidomide victims, said: "We are delighted by the announcement of this pilot scheme which should bring real benefits."

Health minister Mike O'Brien said: "I know that this will be a much-anticipated early Christmas present for all those involved."

Thalidomide campaign leader Nick Dobrik said: "We would like to thank our lawyer Jacqueline Perry for her help over the last 16 years. Without her advice we would not be where we are today.

"Additionally, we would like to thank Mike O'Brien for treating us with so much respect and understanding in recent months.

"Lastly, I would like to thank thalidomiders themselves and MPs from all parties for listening to our concerns and for their support during this process."