Government compensation schemes: update

When public bodies’ failures harm UK citizens, they should expect to be fairly and swiftly compensated. Failings in such schemes were identified in the PAC’s previous reports on the Windrush Compensation Scheme , Equitable Life and the British Steel Pension Scheme . In January 2024, the National Audit Office (NAO) agreed to the then-PAC Chair’s … Show more

When public bodies’ failures harm UK citizens, they should expect to be fairly and swiftly compensated. Failings in such schemes were identified in the PAC’s previous reports on the Windrush Compensation Scheme , Equitable Life and the British Steel Pension Scheme . In January 2024, the National Audit Office (NAO) agreed to the then-PAC Chair’s request that a thematic review be conducted of how government compensation schemes are designed and implemented, citing as examples the Windrush Compensation Scheme; compensation and restorative measures for LGBT veterans; the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme; and compensation for sub-postmasters affected by the Horizon scandal. The NAO’s subsequent report found that there is no central coordinated approach when government sets up new compensation schemes, which has resulted in a relatively slow, ad-hoc approach. There have been mistakes and inefficiencies in the design of schemes, and delays in getting money to claimants. It also highlighted the importance of work to minimise any re-traumatising effects of the compensation process on claimants. In 2026, the National Audit Office (NAO) publishes its latest report tracking progress on the case study schemes. Proceeding from the NAO’s findings in both of its reports, the PAC will take evidence from senior responsible government officials. The PAC’s inquiry will explore the challenges in planning and designing schemes across government, and how to address them to ensure such schemes are effective, timely, proportionate for those making a claim, and fair. If you have evidence on these issues, please submit here by 23:59 on Monday 16 March 2026. Please look at the requirements for written evidence submissions and note that the Committee cannot accept material as evidence that is published elsewhere. The Committee decides what information to publish and how. You can request anonymity or confidentiality when you send evidence, but it is for the Committee to say whether it will agree. It may treat submissions confidentially, even where you have not requested this. Please note that the Committee’s inquiry cannot assist with individual cases. If you need help with an individual problem you are having, you may wish to read the information on Parliament’s website about who you can contact with different issues. This inquiry will not look in detail at issues relating to individual compensation schemes. For further advice and guidance on such matters you may wish to contact: - Infected Blood Compensation Authority - Windrush Compensation Scheme - LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme - Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme - Information on Horizon compensation schemes - Your Member of Parliament Show less