More than 180 survivors engaged in Harrods abuse redress scheme

"The scheme, which was opened last March, will close to new submissions on 31 March. In October, Harrods said it had set aside more than 60m in its plan to compensate victims of alleged historical abuse. The compensation scheme will award each eligible claimant damages of 200,000, though victims who agree to be assessed by a consultant psychiatrist could receive up to 385,000 in compensation plus treatment costs. Survivors who are not assessed by a psychiatrist will receive lower payments."

"Human rights campaigner Dame Jasvinder Sanghera was appointed by Harrods for the Advocate role in 2024, promising to meet as many survivors as possible and guide them through the retailer's compensation process. Justice for Harrods Survivors, which represents some victims, said only a 'truly independent' process could address the needs of survivors. Multiple women have accused Al Fayed, who owned the luxury store between 1985 to 2010, of rape and sexual assault."

"More than 180 survivors of abuse by the former Harrods owner Mohammed Al Fayed are currently 'engaged' in its compensation scheme, the company has said. The luxury retailer said it has already paid out compensation to more than 50 women. As well as its flagship store in Knightsbridge, London, the Harrods Group operates smaller stores at London's Heathrow and Gatwick airports, as well as a small chain of beauty stores."

Harrods has engaged more than 180 survivors in a redress scheme and has already paid compensation to over 50 women. The scheme opened last March and will close to new submissions on 31 March, with applications submitted by that date still to be processed. Harrods set aside more than 60m for alleged historical abuse compensation and will award 200,000 to eligible claimants, with assessments by a consultant psychiatrist allowing awards up to 385,000 plus treatment costs. Counselling support will continue after the deadline, including from Independent Survivor Advocate Dame Jasvinder Sanghera. Justice for Harrods Survivors and legal representatives have raised concerns about independence and Harrods’ control. The Met Police reported 146 people have come forward in their investigation into Mohammed Al Fayed, who owned Harrods from 1985 to 2010.

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