Source · Select Committees · Home Affairs Committee
Recommendation 6
6
Accepted
Paragraph: 37
Low Windrush compensation claims indicate deep lack of trust in Home Office
Conclusion
It is clear from the low level of claims submitted to the compensation scheme to date, and from evidence we have received, that there is considerable work to be done in order to rebuild trust and confidence in the Home Office to deliver the Windrush Compensation Scheme, and to demonstrate to people both that it is safe to seek confirmation of their lawful status and that it is worthwhile to make a claim for compensation.
Government Response Summary
The government is proactively writing to individuals who have been granted documentation under the Windrush Scheme but have not yet applied for compensation, with the first batch of 2,500 letters already sent and the rest to follow in the next two months.
Paragraph Reference:
37
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
We have taken significant and ongoing steps to ensure that individuals who are issued with documentation under the Windrush Scheme are provided with the support they need to make a compensation claim. Our national communications campaign, launched in August 2020, is estimated to have reached over 12 million people, and encouraged people to contact the Windrush Help Team who provide individuals with support and information tailored to their circumstances. The Windrush Help Team has significant experience of providing advice and support to potential claimants. They assist customers who are unsure of their eligibility to apply under the Scheme. We are now in the process of writing to individuals who have been granted documentation under the Windrush Scheme, but who have not yet applied for compensation, in order to signpost them to the Compensation Scheme and encourage them to consider applying. The letter includes eligibility information and is accompanied by an information leaflet on the Compensation Scheme. The first batch of 2,500 letters have now been sent and the remaining letters will be sent in the next two months.