Story perspectives

DWP Maintains 2.8% Overpayment Target Amid Fraud Concerns

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will not raise the 2.8% overpayment target by 2028-29, despite a report urging data sharing to tackle £9.5 billion in fraudulent or erroneous payments.
The Government announced changes to the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme, increasing compensation and adding new awards for psychological harm and exceptional loss.
The Cabinet Office will publish quarterly summaries of community feedback on the scheme to increase transparency.

History

Historical Context

The Infected Blood Inquiry, initiated in 2017, investigates the UK scandal where over 30,000 individuals were infected with HIV or hepatitis C from contaminated blood products between the 1970s and early 1990s. In 2022, interim compensation of £100,000 was awarded to victims, reflecting ongoing efforts to address past injustices and enhance transparency in health-related compensation policies.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will not raise the 2.8% overpayment target by 2028-29, despite a report urging data sharing to tackle £9.5 billion in fraudulent or erroneous payments.
The Government announced changes to the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme, increasing compensation and adding new awards for psychological harm and exceptional loss.
The Cabinet Office will publish quarterly summaries of community feedback on the scheme to increase transparency.

1 / 2