Harrods settlement scheme for abuse survivors to close in March 2026

The scheme was launched by Harrods in March 2025 to compensate survivors of historic sexual abuse relating to Mohamed Al Fayed.

Many survivors say their abuse was facilitated by Harrods, took place during their employment, or occurred on Harrods‑related premises. Others say they were subjected to intrusive and unjustified intimate examinations by occupational health doctors acting on behalf of Harrods. The women were oblivious to the fact that this was a precursor to anticipated sexual abuse by Al Fayed.

Harrods has confirmed that more than 180 survivors are currently engaged with the scheme, and that compensation has already been paid to more than 50 women.

Leigh Day represents 41 survivors of abuse by Al Fayed and related individuals. Most are claiming under scheme, but one has filed legal proceedings against Harrods while four others are claiming against Al Fayed’s estate.

Richard Meeran, partner at Leigh Day, said:

“For many survivors, the Harrods Redress Scheme provides an effective and streamlined means of obtaining the compensation they deserve, particularly where the normal stresses and risks of court proceedings are reduced, and lawyers for survivors do not charge success fees under the Scheme. This means that survivors can obtain legal advice on the adequacy of awards offered by the Scheme, without the risk of the cost of this advice impacting their compensation. At the same time, the Scheme is not necessarily suitable for all survivors, for example where the abuse caused employment-related losses above the scheme limit. We also act for a number of survivors pursuing alternative routes. It is very important that any decision on which legal route to take is based on a careful consideration of each survivor's particular circumstances.

"It should also be recognised that whilst the Scheme may facilitate compensation, which is an important aspect of accountability, it does nothing to ensure that Harrods’ role in facilitating and covering up the systemic sex trafficking of young women is properly scrutinised’. Hence the importance of a public inquiry”