Thalidomide survivors to receive lifelong financial support from Scottish Government
Survivor David Fullerton has described the decision as 'a relief'
Thalidomide survivors living in Scotland are to receive lifelong financial support from the Scottish Government.
There are currently 50 known survivors of the drug in Scotland, most of whom are now in their 60s.
They are among the thousands of babies born with birth defects after their mothers took thalidomide while pregnant, with the drug being commonly used to treat morning sickness from 1958 to 1961.
One of those survivors is David Fullerton from Midlothian, who was born with several physical disabilities on his arms and hands forcing him to grow up with constant medical attention and operations to help.
He has welcomed the the announcement of lifelong support, but said it is more of a relief than a victory.
He tells MFR that living with physical disabilites have come with additional costs since he was young, and feels this support will allow him an others to continue a life which is equal.
He said: " I think it is very appropriate the Scottish Government are recognising this properly, and it goes some way to mitigate the extra costs of disability.
"What we've been given goes some way to offsetting the established costs. Some survivors have had to get homes or cars adjusted according to their disability, and some car adaptations can cost more than the car.
"When I get myself a jacket, it often costs more to get the jacket adjusted than what the jacket actually cost.
"Even when it comes to medical attention. Sometimes it's worth going to London to see a doctor because they have the experience of treating thalidomide survivors, whereas Scotland has limited options, so there is the added costs of travelling and accommodation
"I'm quite happy going to my local GP with coughs and colds, but when it is something that is thalidomide related it is far more reassuring to go to someone with expertise."
In 2013 the Scottish Government committed £14.2 million to help survivors over a 10-year period, with the money going to help with health and living costs.
Ministers have now extended that agreement, with grants to be allocated to survivors on a needs basis, as assessed by the Thalidomide Trust.
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said he hoped the "lifelong commitment" would provide reassurance to those affected.
Mr 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 reassure recipients and help them deal with any challenges they face."