In recent developments concerning allegations against the late Mohamed Al Fayed, over 100 individuals have come forward as victims claiming abuse and have initiated claims for compensation through a scheme established by Harrods. This compensation program was opened on March 31, a notable initiative launched in response to the numerous accusations against Al Fayed, who was the infamous owner of the luxury department store and is known for his controversial legacy.
Harrods began disbursing compensation to applicants at the end of April and confirmed that the scheme remains accessible for new applicants until March 31, 2026. The department store has broadened the eligibility criteria to include employees from Al Fayed’s private airline, Fayair (Jersey) Co Ltd. This expansion highlights the continuing impact of Al Fayed’s alleged misconduct within his businesses and has opened the door for broader claims beyond just Harrods employees.
In a separate but related action, Harrods has also filed a petition in the High Court to replace the executors of Al Fayed’s estate. The store cited a lack of progress in handling Al Fayed’s affairs since his passing in 2023 as the reason for this legal maneuver. The company has made it clear that these actions are taken to ensure responsible administration of the estate, ultimately aiming to secure any estate assets for the benefit of those who are involved in the compensation claims.
Despite the compensation scheme’s establishment, Harrods remains in contact with Fayed family representatives to ensure that all concerns and claims are appropriately addressed. There have also been ongoing consultations with Dame Jasvinder Sanghera, an Independent Survivor Advocate, who is tasked with listening to feedback from victims, whether that feedback is communicated directly or through legal representation. This level of engagement indicates Harrods’ commitment to address the grievances raised by survivors of alleged abuse.
The accusations against Al Fayed are severe, comprising numerous accounts of sexual assault, rape, and harassment primarily involving women who worked under his ownership. In March, it was announced that victims could receive compensation packages reaching up to £385,000, which may include treatment costs if they agree to be assessed by a psychiatrist. If survivors choose not to undergo such medical evaluations, they will be eligible for lower compensation amounts, delineating a direct relationship between the extent of assessment and potential financial assistance.
Specific compensation structures have been articulated, allowing victims to claim varying amounts, including General Damages of up to £200,000 and a Work Impact Payment of up to £150,000. Furthermore, individuals who had to endure invasive medical examinations during their employment may receive compensation of up to £10,000 for those experiences, in addition to coverage for previous treatment costs. Importantly, individuals need not have been direct employees of Harrods, although their claims must be adequately connected to their experiences with Al Fayed.
It is crucial to note that individuals alleging assault outside of the UK may also qualify for compensation if their circumstances are sufficiently linked to Al Fayed’s role at Harrods. This has broadened the potential reach of the compensation scheme to align with the complex nature of workplace abuse and its lingering repercussions.
Significant media attention has been directed towards this issue, particularly following a BBC documentary titled “Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods,” which brought to light harrowing testimonies from over twenty former female employees alleging sexual violence. The documentary spurred numerous additional reports from women detailing their experiences, further showcasing widespread claims of misconduct during Al Fayed’s tenure as owner.
In light of these developments, current owners of Harrods have publicly expressed their profound disappointment regarding the allegations of abuse and have formally apologized for the failure to protect the victims, thus acknowledging their plight. Notably, Al Fayed passed away before facing any criminal charges, which leaves a complicated legacy surrounding accountability and justice for his alleged victims. As this compensation scheme unfolds, it represents a critical avenue for victims to seek recognition and remediation for the suffering endured during their interactions with Al Fayed and his establishments.
