Harrods Compensation Scheme Draws Over 180 Survivors as Deadline Looms

More than 180 survivors of alleged abuse by former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed are now involved in the retailer's compensation program. The company confirmed the figure, stating it has already made payments to more than 50 women.

The scheme, launched in March 2025, will stop accepting new applications on March 31, 2026. While all eligible claimants are set to receive a base award of £200,000, those who undergo an assessment by a consultant psychiatrist could be granted up to £385,000, plus coverage for treatment costs. Those who decline the assessment will receive a lower payment.

Harrods emphasized that applications submitted by the deadline will continue to be processed afterward, and counselling support—including from an Independent Survivor Advocate—will remain available. The advocate role, held by human rights campaigner Dame Jasvinder Sanghera since her 2024 appointment, is intended to guide survivors through the process.

However, the program faces criticism. The group Justice for Harrods Survivors argues only a fully independent process can meet survivors' needs. KP Law, representing more than 260 alleged survivors, has expressed concern that Harrods maintains "complete control" over the scheme.

The allegations against Al Fayed, who owned the luxury store from 1985 to 2010, include rape and sexual assault. The Metropolitan Police have said 146 people have reported crimes as part of their investigation.

Tom Fletcher, a lawyer at Irwin Mitchell which represents some victims, noted settlements have been secured for some clients. "While no sum of money can ever be sufficient," he said, "the compensation acknowledges the severity of the abuse and provides resources for specialist support to help our clients move forward."