UK Firm Assessing Covid Vaccine Harm Replaced Amid Soaring Costs

The UK government has replaced a firm hired to assess harm caused by Covid vaccines after costs spiralled out of control, reaching £48 million, a staggering eight times the original estimate. Crawford & Company Adjusters, the firm in question, was tasked with evaluating claims related to vaccine harm as part of the UK's vaccine damage payment scheme.

The vaccine damage payment scheme was set up to provide financial assistance to individuals who suffered harm as a result of receiving a Covid vaccine. The scheme is administered by the UK's National Health Service (NHS) and is designed to provide support to those who have experienced serious side effects or harm as a result of vaccination.

According to reports, Crawford & Company Adjusters was initially contracted to assess vaccine harm claims at a cost of £6 million. However, the firm's costs quickly escalated, and the contract was eventually terminated due to the "unacceptable" costs.

The replacement of Crawford & Company Adjusters comes as the UK government faces scrutiny over its handling of vaccine-related claims. Critics argue that the government has been slow to respond to concerns about vaccine safety and has failed to provide adequate support to those who have experienced harm as a result of vaccination.

The UK's vaccine damage payment scheme has been plagued by delays and controversy, with many claimants reporting difficulties in accessing support. The scheme has also been criticized for its narrow eligibility criteria, which have been accused of excluding many individuals who have experienced harm as a result of vaccination.

The replacement of Crawford & Company Adjusters is likely to add to the controversy surrounding the UK's vaccine damage payment scheme. The government has promised to review the scheme and ensure that it is providing adequate support to those who need it.

In a statement, a government spokesperson said: "We are committed to ensuring that those who have experienced harm as a result of Covid vaccination receive the support they need. We will be reviewing the vaccine damage payment scheme to ensure that it is working effectively and efficiently."

The controversy surrounding the UK's vaccine damage payment scheme is not unique. Similar schemes have been established in other countries, and many have faced criticism for their handling of vaccine-related claims.

As the world continues to grapple with the pandemic, the issue of vaccine safety and the need for adequate support for those who experience harm as a result of vaccination is likely to remain a contentious issue. The replacement of Crawford & Company Adjusters is a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in the handling of vaccine-related claims.

In a bid to address concerns about vaccine safety, the UK government has established an independent review into the safety of Covid vaccines. The review, which is expected to report later this year, will examine the evidence on vaccine safety and make recommendations for improving the support available to those who experience harm as a result of vaccination.

The UK government has also committed to improving transparency around vaccine safety data, including the publication of regular updates on vaccine side effects and adverse reactions.

As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the need for adequate support and transparency around vaccine safety is essential for maintaining public trust in vaccination programs.