Post Office Scandal Victims Can Now Claim Up to £600,000 in New Redress Scheme
Postmasters wrongly convicted under the Post Office Offences Act can finally apply for compensation through a brand new redress scheme.
New Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme Launched
- The Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme (HCRS) is open to postmasters whose convictions were overturned by the Post Office Offences Act but haven’t yet been cleared by the courts.
- Victims can opt for a fixed payout of £600,000 or request a detailed full case assessment if they believe their losses exceed that amount.
- The scheme aims to deliver fast, fair compensation without red tape to help victims rebuild their lives.
From today, eligible postmasters are urged to come forward and register for the scheme. Once confirmed, claims will be handled swiftly by dedicated caseworkers at the Department for Business and Trade.
Government Voices Support
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “Postmasters have suffered immeasurably, so I hope today’s new redress scheme brings some relief to those who have waited far too long to get back the money that is rightfully theirs.”
“Any postmaster who thinks they are eligible should come forward and register. We know every case is different, and this government supports their right to choose the best route for compensation.”
Who Qualifies for the Scheme?
- Convictions overturned under the Post Office Offences Act, including those passed by the Scottish Government.
- Prosecutions brought by the Post Office, Crown Prosecution Service, or relevant authorities in Northern Ireland.
- Offences related to Post Office business from 1996 to 2018, such as theft, fraud, or false accounting.
- Sub-postmasters, their employees, officers, family members, or Post Office staff linked to the Horizon IT system.
- Convictions not already overturned by the Court of Appeal.
The Department for Business and Trade will collaborate with the Ministry of Justice to verify claims. From this week, postmasters with overturned convictions will also receive official letters confirming their exoneration.
Lord Chancellor Pledges Swift Justice and Fair Compensation
Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said:
“Justice must be a reality, not an ideal. Today we begin putting this into practice by overturning the convictions of innocent postmasters affected by this unprecedented miscarriage of justice.”
“I pay tribute to these hardworking men and women for their courage and determination. I’m pleased we can now start righting this wrong and ensure they are fairly compensated without delay.”
The Government promises to cover all reasonable legal fees for postmasters to ease their financial burden amid this scandal.
The Road to Accountability Continues
An independent inquiry is ongoing, digging deeper into the Horizon scandal to expose the truth, hold the right people accountable, and deliver justice for the victims.
