THE Scottish Government has pledged to give lifelong financial support to thalidomide survivors living in Scotland.
There are 50 known survivors of the drug in Scotland. They were among thousands of babies born with birth defects after their mothers took thalidomide while pregnant. It was commonly used to treat morning sickness from 1958-61.
In 2013 the Scottish Government committed £14.2 million to help survivors with health and living costs over a 10-year period. Ministers have now extended that agreement. Grants will be allocated on a needs basis, as assessed by the Thalidomide Trust.
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “This funding is used to give thalidomide survivors as much assistance as they need to maintain their independence. It has been a vital support in helping people adapt their homes and manage their pain. I hope this lifelong commitment to continue this support will re-assure recipients and help them deal with any challenges they face.”
Jean, 61, was born with damage to all four of her limbs. She said: “The health grant from the Scottish Government has really helped me over the years – my kitchen, for example, is now completely accessible from my wheelchair and I was able to build a little gym in the garden which has helped so much in terms of my physical strength, fitness and my mental health.
“Due to thalidomide, I live with chronic pain and if I don’t move around my body will stiffen and seize up. The grant also allows me to pay for a personal trainer.
“Knowing this funding is going to continue indefinitely has given me, and many other Thalidomiders living in Scotland such peace of mind.”
Deborah Jack, executive director of the Thalidomide Trust, said: “Sadly, as our beneficiaries age they are experiencing multiple health problems, in addition to their original thalidomide damage, and the costs of meeting their complex needs are significant.
“Many of them have been really anxious about the prospect of this much-needed funding coming to an end.”
