Source · Select Committees · Home Affairs Committee
Recommendation 32
32
Accepted
Paragraph: 103
Increased impact on life payments used to offset insufficient compensation for other losses.
Conclusion
We also strongly welcome the increased payments for impact on life. However, we are troubled that one of the reasons identified by the NAO for this change was, effectively, to supplement other categories of loss where compensation is either insufficient or inaccessible due to the evidential requirements. We are saddened to hear that some individuals have accepted an offer which does not reflect their losses because they could no longer face the process.
Government response summary AI-generated
The government committed to reviewing its definition of Homelessness within the compensation scheme, noting that claimants are currently not precluded from awards in this category if staying with family and friends.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Paragraph Reference:
103
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government · verbatim extract
Accepted
The ‘Impact on Life’ category is specifically designed to cover the non-financial impacts individuals may have faced as a result of being unable to demonstrate their lawful status, including a deterioration in physical or mental health. This category is awarded in a series of levels with payments ranging from £10,000 for detriment where the effect on an individual was short-lived, and up to £100,000 plus where the effect on an individual was profound and likely to be irreversible. Under the changes we made to the Scheme in December, those eligible under the terms of the Scheme will receive a minimum Impact on Life payment of £10,000. Compensation under this category is awarded in a series of 5 levels recognising increasing duration and severity of impacts. Casework guidance is publicly available which defines how Impact on Life awards are considered: Windrush Compensation Scheme (publishing.service.gov.uk)
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