A flat-rate, ‘events-based’ redress scheme for families of postmasters severely affected by the Horizon IT miscarriage of justice scandal is due to open in the summer
The scheme was recommended by Sir Wyn Williams, who chaired the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry. Applicants must show their postmaster relative suffered prosecution, bankruptcy or other consequence of the faulty software but will not need to provide contemporaneous evidence of medical issues, which few people would be able to provide. The amount to be awarded has not been decided.
Post Office minister Blair McDougall said: ‘The scandal’s devastating consequences were experienced not just by those running post offices, but also by those closest to them.
‘The scheme has been designed to be as accessible and straightforward as possible, minimising bureaucratic barriers so that families receive redress without delay.’
