Harrods launches compensation scheme for Al Fayed victims

Victims of abuse by former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed may receive compensation. They could get up to £385,000 plus treatment costs. This is if they agree to be assessed by a consultant psychiatrist.

Multiple women have accused Fayed, who died last year, of rape and sexual assault. Harrods published its compensation scheme on Monday. Victims have one year to apply for compensation.

Kingsley Hayes, a partner at KP Law, represents Justice for Harrods. He said the scheme "falls short" in addressing the impact on victims.

Harrods apologized for the abuse inflicted by Fayed. The store wants all eligible survivors to receive compensation.

Individuals can apply for different amounts. General Damages can reach up to £200,000. A Work Impact Payment can be as high as £150,000.

Many victims underwent intrusive medical examinations when hired. Compensation for these tests could be up to £10,000. Past treatment costs will also be covered.

Survivors who do not undergo psychiatric assessment will receive lower payments. An eligible applicant does not need to have been an employee of Harrods.

Claims must show a "sufficiently close connection" to Fayed's role at Harrods. Those assaulted outside the UK may also qualify if connected to Fayed's actions.

The scheme requires only "documentary evidence." Applicants will not need to provide oral testimony about their claims.

All eligible applicants will meet with a senior Harrods representative. They will receive an apology in person or via video and a written apology.

Successful applicants accepting offers will consider it a "full and final settlement." The deadline for applications is provisionally set for 31 March 2026.

Lawyers representing victims criticized the lack of transparency in the scheme. Mr. Hayes stated that Harrods controls the process and outcomes unfairly.

Tom Fletcher from Irwin Mitchell cautiously welcomed the scheme but criticized Harrods' lack of details on an internal review regarding other employees involved with Fayed's behavior.

He requested urgent clarification from Harrods about this review process and its findings.

Harrods' new owners expressed being "appalled" by the allegations of abuse. They have been investigating since 2023 whether current staff were involved in any misconduct related to Fayed.

A spokesperson from Harrods stated they would not comment on ongoing investigations. Any claims regarding current staff behavior during Fayed's ownership are under examination as part of these investigations.

The BBC’s documentary “Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods” featured testimonies from over 20 female ex-employees who reported sexual assault or rape by Fayed. Dozens more women shared their experiences after the documentary aired in September.

Fayed was never charged before his death.