Service of Recognition, Remembrance and Reflection held at St Paul’s Cathedral for those affected by the Infected Blood Scandal

Held on the eve of the second anniversary of the publication of the Infected Blood Inquiry report, the service created space to remember all those whose lives have been profoundly affected by the Infected Blood Scandal, and to honour those who have died.

The service was attended by members of the infected blood community, The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and Clive Smith, Chair of the Infected Blood Memorial Committee, alongside representatives from charities and support organisations.

Planned by the Infected Blood Memorial Committee in consultation with the wider community, the service brought together people from across the UK in a moment of shared remembrance and reflection.

Music formed an important part of the service, with moving performances from the St Paul’s Cathedral Consort, Michael Ball and London Contemporary Voices.

Throughout the service, symbolic acts of remembrance offered opportunities for quiet reflection. Empty chairs stood in memory of those who lost their lives as a result of the scandal, with candle lighting, the reading of names, and a moment of silence as petals fell from the Whispering Gallery.

For centuries, St Paul's has been a place for people to gather in moments of significance, sorrow and hope. It was a privilege to host this important service and to welcome all those who came together in remembrance, recognition and solidarity.