As Factor 8, an organisation steadfastly dedicated to advocating for the victims of the infected blood scandal, we are acutely aware of the importance of maintaining the highest ethical standards in all aspects of our work, especially in our funding sources.

We have taken a firm and principled stance against accepting donations from the pharmaceutical industry. Though it sets us apart from many advocacy groups, this decision is deeply rooted in our core values and the trust we have built with our community.

Our refusal to accept pharmaceutical donations reflects our dedication to representing the interests and voices of those impacted by the scandal without any actual or perceived conflict of interest. We believe that accepting funds from companies associated with the scandal, their successor companies, parent companies or derivatives would undermine our mission and the trust we have worked so hard to build. We must ensure that our advocacy remains untainted and focused solely on the need for truth and justice for our community.

We recognise the practical challenges of sustaining a robust advocacy campaign without the financial support from such large entities. However, we firmly believe that our independence from pharmaceutical funding is crucial for our credibility and effectiveness. We are committed to finding alternative sources of funding that align with our values and enable us to continue our vital work without compromising our principles.

Factor 8 operates as a not-for-profit organisation, distinct from a charity, a decision shaped by both circumstance and choice. Legally, we are registered as a Private Limited Company by guarantee without share capital, and we utilise the 'Limited' exemption. This legal structure is not only fitting for our operations but also empowers us in ways that being a charity might not.

Initially, when Factor 8 was being established, we sought recognition as a charity. However, the Charity Commission deemed our core purpose too political for charitable status. According to their criteria, "an organisation must have purposes which are charitable and for the public benefit" and cannot have "political activity as any of its charitable purposes." Our mission, as stated in our original application to the Charity Commission, of "truth, justice & recognition" for victims of the Contaminated Blood Scandal and our methods involving engagement with Parliament, media, and other bodies were interpreted as predominantly political activities.

While this decision by the Charity Commission might seem limiting at first glance, it has, in fact, allowed us greater freedom and flexibility in our advocacy work. As a not-for-profit, we are not bound by the same restrictions that govern charities. This freedom has been instrumental in allowing us to engage in robust political activities, including lobbying for change, working closely with parliamentary bodies, MPs, and Ministers to effect political change, and playing a vital role in the establishment of, contributions to and working with the Infected Blood Inquiry and our legal representatives at Collins Solicitors.

Our status as a Private Limited Company by guarantee without share capital use of 'Limited' exemption is particularly advantageous for a non-profit like ours. Moreover, this legal form provides transparency and accountability mechanisms, ensuring that our operations remain focused on our mission. It also affords us the latitude to engage directly in political activities, essential to our mission of seeking justice and recognition for those affected by the Contaminated Blood Scandal.

In essence, while we operate with ethics and values shared by some charities, our legal status as a not-for-profit allows us to pursue our goals more assertively and directly, especially in political spheres. This approach has proven effective in our campaign for justice, enabling us to maintain an unyielding voice in advocating for the rights and recognition of the victims of this preventable scandal.

Although initially not our choice, Factor 8's structure as a not-for-profit organisation has ultimately empowered us to advocate more powerfully and effectively for those we represent. This status aligns seamlessly with our mission and strategies, allowing us to pursue our goals with the necessary vigour and focus that the seriousness of our cause demands.

Our funding model is based on the generosity and support of the public and contributions from non-pharmaceutical organisations. We are continually heartened and motivated by the solidarity and support we receive from individuals and groups who share our commitment to justice and accountability. This support fuels our day-to-day operations and strengthens our resolve to continue our advocacy with integrity and independence.

We want to express our gratitude to all those who have supported and continue to support us. Your contributions are invaluable to our cause. Your belief in our mission enables us to advocate for those impacted by the infected blood scandal.

This approach is not just about maintaining financial integrity; it's about upholding the trust and faith that our community has placed in us. We will continue to work tirelessly, fuelled by the support of those who believe in our cause, to seek justice and recognition for all those infected by HIV and Hepatitis C through infected Factor VIII & IX blood products in the 1970s and 1980s.