More Than 180 Survivors Engaged in Harrods Abuse Compensation Scheme

More than 180 survivors of alleged abuse by former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed are currently engaged in the retailer’s redress scheme, the company has confirmed, as the deadline for new applications approaches.

Harrods said it has already paid compensation to more than 50 women under the scheme, which was launched last March. The programme is set to close to new submissions on 31 March, although claims submitted before that date will continue to be processed.

The luxury department store previously announced it had set aside more than £60 million to compensate individuals who allege historical abuse. Under the scheme, eligible claimants can receive base damages of £200,000. Survivors who choose to undergo an assessment by a consultant psychiatrist may receive up to £385,000, alongside coverage for treatment costs. Those who opt not to take part in a psychiatric evaluation are eligible for lower payments.

Harrods said it will continue to offer counselling support beyond the application deadline, including access to its Independent Survivor Advocate. Human rights campaigner Dame Jasvinder Sanghera was appointed to that role in 2024 and has pledged to meet as many survivors as possible to guide them through the process.

Multiple women have accused Al Fayed, who owned Harrods between 1985 and 2010, of rape and sexual assault. He died in 2023. The Metropolitan Police Service has said that 146 people have come forward to report alleged offences as part of its investigation.

The compensation scheme has drawn mixed reactions from legal representatives and advocacy groups. Justice for Harrods Survivors, which supports some claimants, has argued that only a fully independent mechanism can properly address the needs of victims. Concerns have been raised about Harrods retaining control over the administration of the scheme.

Law firm KP Law, which represents more than 260 survivors, has criticised aspects of the redress process, saying it believes governance arrangements should be more transparent. Meanwhile, solicitor Tom Fletcher of Irwin Mitchell, which is also acting for some claimants, said securing settlements under the scheme has provided clients with recognition of the harm suffered and financial resources to access specialist support.

Harrods operates its flagship store in Knightsbridge as well as outlets at Heathrow and Gatwick airports and a chain of beauty stores. The company has said it is committed to supporting survivors and addressing the legacy of past allegations through the redress framework.

As the March deadline nears, campaigners are urging anyone eligible to seek advice and consider submitting claims while the scheme remains open.