Harrods abuse redress claims

Harrods Redress Scheme

The Harrods redress scheme was launched on 31 March 2025 for those who were sexually abused by Mohamed Al-Fayed. The scheme also includes people  who have been wrongfully or inappropriately medically tested in the course of employment at Harrods. It also includes circumstances where Al-Fayed was acting as his role as chairman, such as conducting interviews.

We are calling for survivors to come forward as time limits apply. The scheme will remain open until 31 March 2026.

The redress criteria

Compensation is awarded based on a banding criterion which is readily available to review. Compensation is based on either (1) individuals who do not agree to a medical assessment (psychological) and (2) individuals who believe they have suffered a psychological injury and are willing to have an assessment with a psychologist.

The banding guides are below

(1) Without medical assessment

a. General Damages (to compensate pain and suffering) of up to £110,000.

b. Aggravated Damages of up to £25,000.

c. Wrongful Testing Fixed Payment(s) of up to £10,000.

d. a discretionary payment of up to £5,000 towards Past Treatment Costs.

(2) With medical assessment

a. General Damages (to compensate pain and suffering) of up to £200,000.

b. Aggravated Damages of up to £25,000.

c. Wrongful Testing Fixed Payment(s) of up to £10,000.

d. Treatment Costs: past treatment costs up to £10,000 and future treatment.

e. A payment for work related losses (Work Impact Payment) of up to £150,000.

There is an appeals process with an independent barrister if the award offered is not within the banding we feel is appropriate.

How we can help

We support clients through the redress process to make sure the survivor gets the compensation they should receive. We have considerable experience of guiding and representing clients in various redress schemes for example: Jersey; Lambeth; Northern Ireland; and Savile. It is important that survivors have the benefit of experienced lawyers to navigate what can be quite complex qualifying procedures.

We will be seeking costs from Harrods for any clients we represent within the scheme, therefore you will receive 100% of your compensation. Those who do not wish to enter the Harrods scheme, may at any stage opt out and proceed with the civil claim route.

Civil claim for Harrods abuse survivors

For survivors pursuing a Harrods abuse civil claim related to Mohamed Al-Fayed’s ownership period, the legal process requires proving:

• That they were sexually abused while working at Harrods.
• That the entity they are suing—such as Harrods or associated parties—is legally liable for the abuse.
• That they have suffered psychological, emotional, or physical harm as a result of the abuse.
• That, even if time limitations are raised as a defence, it would still be fair for the case to proceed.

The legal hurdles in civil cases are significant, particularly when the alleged abuser is no longer alive. However, we has extensive experience in handling complex, high-profile abuse claims, including those where perpetrators were never convicted.

If you or someone you know suffered abuse at Harrods during Mohamed Al-Fayed’s tenure, you may still have the right to compensation.

We offer a free, confidential consultation where we can discuss your case and advise on how to pursue a claim against Harrods. Whether you prefer to meet in person, speak over the phone, or communicate remotely, we will work in the way that feels most comfortable for you.

Why choose Hugh James for Harrods abuse claims?

Survivors of abuse often face long-term emotional and psychological impacts, and we believe that securing compensation is just one part of the journey toward rebuilding your life. That’s why we take a holistic approach, ensuring that we fight for not just financial compensation but also access to specialist therapy, rehabilitation, and future opportunities.

• Pursuing Accountability – We are committed to holding Harrods and associated institutions accountable for the abuse that took place under Mohamed Al-Fayed’s tenure.
• Compensation That Supports Recovery – Beyond financial redress, compensation can help fund the services and support needed to rebuild your life.
• Confidential & Sensitive Legal Support – We provide a safe, understanding, and respectful environment for survivors to pursue justice without fear.

Specialist experience in institutional abuse cases

We have successfully represented survivors in landmark abuse claims against high-profile individuals and organisations.

• Proven Track Record in High-Profile Cases – Our team has experience handling complex, large-scale abuse litigation, including claims against Jimmy Savile, Max Clifford, and other high-profile perpetrators.
• No Win, No Fee Representation – We believe redress should be accessible to all effected by abuse, which is why we offer a No Win, No Fee service for abuse claims.

We Take Care of Everything – We handle the entire legal process, so you don’t have to worry about the burden of navigating your claim.

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Our expertise in abuse claims

Our Abuse Claims Team is led by Partner Alan Collins, one of the UK’s leading solicitors in sexual abuse litigation. Alan has represented survivors in some of the most well-known abuse scandals, ensuring that perpetrators and organisations are held accountable.

Danielle Vincent is another key member of our team, specialising in claims involving abuse in workplaces, schools, medical settings, and local authority failings. She has experience supporting survivors in seeking compensation against powerful institutions, ensuring their voices are heard.