Today Harrods has launched it’s Redress Scheme in response to sexual abuse perpetrated by Mohamed Fayed during his time as Chairman of Harrods. It is a voluntary, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanism, offering survivors compensation without the need for formal litigation.
The scheme is operated by MPL Legal and is open between 31 March 2025 and 31 March 2026, although claims made before the deadline will continue to be processed after.
Hutcheon Law are acting for many victims of Mohammed Fayed who have abused many employees of Harrods in his capacity as Chairperson of the company and also in his personal capacity. Whilst the Redress Compensation Scheme is being looked over by our solicitors have expressed the following guarded opinion:
“We are pleased about this significant development in the road of redress for all victims of Al Fayed. We are considering the detail carefully and will provide a full update very soon”.
In summary the scheme provides the following mechanisms to award an abused victim compensation. In addition to the compensation the scheme will also pay the victim’s solicitors costs.
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Quantum of Compensation
- Compensation Types and Limits
Depending on the pathway chosen (Medical or Non-Medical), survivors may receive:
- General Damages (The claim for the abuse, injury, pain and suffering)
- Up to GBP 200,000 (Medical Pathway)
- Up to GBP 110,000 (Non-Medical Pathway)
- Aggravated Damages
- Up to GBP 25,000
- Awarded where there is dismissal, intimidation, or threats following disclosure
- Wrongful Testing Fixed Payments
- GBP 7,000 for invasive gynaecological tests
- GBP 3,000 for sexually motivated blood tests
- Treatment Costs
- Up to GBP 10,000 for past treatment (Medical Pathway)
- Up to GBP 5,000 (Non-Medical Pathway)
- Work Impact Payment
- Up to GBP 150,000
- Calculated based on severity of abuse and impact on employment (detailed in Appendix 2) of the compensation scheme
The Full Compensation Tariffs and Awards for Can be Viewed by Clicking on this link: Harrods Compensation Redress Scheme
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Solicitor Costs & Legal Representation
- Legal representation is not mandatory, but Harrods will pay reasonable legal costs for those who instruct solicitors.
- Costs must be submitted within 3 months of leaving the scheme or receiving final payment.
- If agreement on costs cannot be reached, parties can proceed to a Costs Appeal Process, where a Costs Expert determines the outcome.
- Legal fees are recoverable even where an applicant exits the scheme or a claim is rejected.
Possible Advantages of Joining the Scheme
- Trauma-Informed Approach: No oral evidence required; decisions based on documents.
- Limitation Defence Waiver: Harrods waives limitation arguments within the scheme timeframe.
- Privacy & Sensitivity: Confidential processing and optional in-person apologies from Harrods.
- Quick Resolutions: Compensation offers within 28 to 35 days once documentation is complete.
- Appeal Options: Access to a Scheme Barrister to review compensation and a Costs Expert for fees.
- Medical and Non-Medical Options: Flexibility depending on whether psychological harm is claimed.
- Experts are nominated by Harrods; query independence and loyalty to the bill payer.
Possible Pitfalls and Disadvantages Under the Scheme
- Cap on Damages: Maximum fixed awards mean that more serious cases may receive less than in civil litigation.
- No Court Precedent: Offers made under the scheme are confidential and “without prejudice.”
- No Calculated Loss of Earnings: Work Impact Payment is based on a point system, not actual financial loss.
- Final Settlement: Accepting an offer under the scheme waives rights to any further claims.
- Medical Records Required: Full disclosure of sensitive medical/psychological records is mandatory under the Medical Pathway.
- Limited Scope: Only applies to claims where Harrods may be held vicariously liable for abuse by Mohamed Fayed.
- Appeal Cap: An unfavourable appeal outcome cannot be overturned unless the applicant exits the scheme entirely.
Possible Case Selection Criteria
In summary and it is only an overview at this stage, whether a victim should settle the case under the Harrods Compensation Redress Scheme will very much be dependent upon individual factors of the case that is specific to the former employee of Harrods or of Mohammed Al Fayed personally. But some certain factors will stand out that may sway an abused victim to proceed under the Harrods Redress Scheme or through the court process.
Factors in favour fo the Harrods Redress Compensation Scheme:
- Wish to avoid litigation or cross-examination
- Want a confidential, swift settlement
- May have difficulty proving loss in court but meet the balance of probabilities test
Claimants not suited to the scheme:
- Suffered significant ongoing loss of earnings or severe psychiatric harm
- Seek public accountability via trial
- May recover more in court through uncapped general and special damages
How We Can Help — No Win, No Fee Solicitors for Abuse Survivors
At Hutcheon Law Solicitors, we understand the emotional and legal challenges survivors of abuse face. Whether you choose to pursue a Harrods abuse compensation claim through the Harrods Redress Scheme or opt for a civil claim through the courts, our experienced solicitors will provide clear, confidential, and personalised advice based on the facts of your case.
We are proud to offer a No Win, No Fee service, meaning you won’t pay any legal fees unless your claim is successful. We will support you every step of the way — ensuring you are treated with dignity, sensitivity, and care.
Don’t suffer in silence. If you or a loved one has been affected by sexual abuse connected to Harrods or Mohamed Fayed, we urge you to come forward. Strict deadlines apply to both redress scheme applications and civil claims, so please reach out as soon as possible for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Contact our abuse claims team today or call us on 0151 724 7121. All enquiries are treated in the strictest confidence.
Expert Solicitors Helping Abuse Victims Obtain Justice and Compensation
Further Reading, Questions and Answers
The following details are just an overview of the scheme and not legal advice from this firm but take into account the FAQ’s on Harrods Solicitors website. The Harrods Redress Scheme has been set up to provide compensation to individuals who suffered sexual abuse connected to Mohamed Al-Fayed during his time as Chairman of Harrods. The scheme is designed to offer a faster and less adversarial route than going through the courts, while still offering compensation that reflects what could be achieved in litigation.
Eligibility and General Information
1. Do I need to be a Harrods employee to claim compensation?
No. You do not need to have been a Harrods employee. If there is a sufficiently close connection between your abuse and Harrods (e.g. the abuse was committed by Mohamed Al-Fayed in his role as Chairman), you may still be eligible. This is based on the principle of vicarious liability.
2. I worked for a concession inside Harrods. Am I eligible?
Yes. Employees of concessions inside Harrods will be assessed on the same basis as direct Harrods employees.
3. I was assaulted outside the UK. Can I still apply?
Yes. The location of the abuse does not affect eligibility, as long as Harrods can be held vicariously liable for the conduct.
4. Do I need to live in the UK to apply or participate in the scheme?
No. You do not need to live in the UK or travel to the UK at any stage. Medical assessments (if required) can be conducted remotely via Zoom or Teams.
5. Is there a deadline to apply?
Yes. The application window is open until 31 March 2026. This may be extended, but survivors are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Compensation and Assessment
6. How is compensation assessed?
Compensation under the scheme is based on Judicial College Guidelines used by UK courts. Awards reflect the severity and impact of the abuse suffered. You may claim through one of two assessment options:
Medical Pathway: Involves assessment by a consultant psychiatrist.
Non-Medical Pathway: Based on written evidence and severity outlined in your application form.
7. Can I switch from non-medical to medical pathway?
Yes, you can switch from the non-medical to the medical route at any time before accepting an offer.
8. What if I want to use my own doctor?
You must be assessed by an independent psychiatrist appointed by the scheme to ensure impartiality. However, your doctor’s reports can be submitted as supporting evidence.
9. Will I need to provide medical records?
Only if you choose the medical pathway. These records help assess the psychological impact of the abuse.
Legal Representation and Costs
10. Do I need a lawyer to make a claim?
It is not mandatory but strongly recommended. The scheme will pay your legal costs if your claim is accepted.
11. What if I don’t have a lawyer?
You can still apply.
12. Can I choose my own solicitor?
Yes. You may choose any legal representative, such as Hutcheon Law.
Support and Confidentiality
13. Are Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) required?
No. Survivors will not be required to sign any NDAs or non-disparagement clauses. Settlements will be full and final, with a discharge form confirming the resolution.
14. What if I am found ineligible – can I still access support?
Yes. Survivors supported by Dame Jasvinder Sanghera and associated counselling services will continue to receive help even if found ineligible.
