The Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS) provides a one-time payment to individuals who have suffered severe disability due to a vaccine. If you receive this payment, you can still pursue legal action for additional compensation.
This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and which vaccines are covered under the scheme.
Who Can Apply for a Vaccine Damage Payment?
You can apply if:
- You have been severely disabled due to a vaccine.
- You are applying on behalf of someone under 16 as their parent or guardian.
- You are applying on behalf of someone who cannot manage their own affairs.
- You manage the estate of someone who has passed away due to vaccine-related complications.
Which Vaccines Are Covered Under the Scheme?
You may qualify if you have severe disability caused by a vaccination against any of the following diseases:
- Coronavirus (COVID-19)
- Diphtheria
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Influenza (except pandemic influenza virus)
- Measles
- Meningococcal group B (meningitis B)
- Meningococcal group C (meningitis C)
- Meningococcal group W (meningitis W)
- Mumps
- Pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 (swine flu) (up to 31 August 2010)
- Pertussis (whooping cough)
- Pneumococcal infection
- Poliomyelitis (polio)
- Rotavirus
- Rubella (German measles)
- Smallpox (up to 1 August 1971)
- Tetanus
- Tuberculosis (TB)
Combined Vaccinations
- If you received a combined vaccine (e.g., DTP for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, or MMR for measles, mumps, and rubella), you may still qualify.
Additional Eligibility Conditions
You may also be eligible if:
- Your mother was vaccinated against one of the diseases while pregnant, and it caused your disability.
- You developed severe disability after being in close contact with someone who had an oral polio vaccine.
Important Notes
- The Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme is not compensation—it is a government support payment.
- If you receive this payment, you can still pursue legal action for additional compensation.
What Should You Do Next?
- If you believe you are eligible, apply through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
- If you need assistance, contact the Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme office.
The Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme provides financial support to those who have suffered severe disability due to a vaccination. While this is not a compensation scheme, it is a one-time payment to help those affected. If you qualify, you should consider applying as soon as possible while also exploring legal options for additional compensation.
For more details, visit the UK government website or contact the DWP directly.
FAQ’s
What is the Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme?
It is a government support payment for people who have suffered severe disability due to a vaccination. It is not a compensation scheme.
Who can apply for a Vaccine Damage Payment?
You can apply if you are severely disabled due to a vaccine, or on behalf of a child, someone unable to manage their affairs, or a deceased person.
Which vaccines are covered under the scheme?
Vaccines for COVID-19, measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, meningitis, and more are covered.
Can I still sue for compensation if I receive a Vaccine Damage Payment?
Yes, the Vaccine Damage Payment does not prevent you from taking legal action to claim additional compensation.
How do I apply for a Vaccine Damage Payment?
You can apply through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Contact the Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme office for assistance.
