Harrods announces Redress Scheme in response to allegations against former Chairman, Mohamed Al Fayed

Harrods has issued a formal statement introducing a comprehensive Redress Scheme in light of serious allegations concerning its former Chairman and owner, Mohamed Al Fayed.

The luxury retailer acknowledged the historic abuses of power and has taken a bold step toward accountability and justice for those affected.

The new Redress Scheme aims to provide support and compensation to survivors of alleged misconduct during Al Fayed’s 25-year tenure at Harrods.

High-profile attorney Gloria Allred has publicly accused Al Fayed of engaging in decades of sexual abuse, threats, and systemic cover-ups, calling the working environment at Harrods under his leadership “toxic, unsafe, and abusive.”

Harrods has expressed deep regret for the harm caused and has committed to fostering a safe and respectful workplace culture. The launch of this scheme marks a significant move toward transparency, healing, and institutional reform.

All you need to know about the Harrods Redress Scheme

Harrods has instructed MPL Legal to act on its behalf in connection with claims arising from sexual abuse allegedly committed by Al Fayed during his tenure. The Redress Scheme is fully funded by Harrods and offered on a ‘without prejudice’ basis as a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).

The scheme is designed to be:

• Efficient, fair, and reasonable
• Easily accessible, with or without legal representation
• Non-adversarial, with no requirement for oral testimony

Recognising that the traditional legal system can retraumatise survivors, Harrods’ process is based entirely on submitted documentation. Offers of compensation will be made solely on the strength of written evidence, removing the need for survivors to relive their experiences in hearings.

Legal rights and eligibility

Applying to the Scheme does not waive an applicant’s legal rights. However, if a survivor chooses to accept an offer through the Redress Scheme, they will be asked to sign a Form of Discharge, settling the claim in full.

Eligibility for the Scheme is limited to individuals who may have a civil claim against Harrods in connection with sexual abuse by Mohamed Al Fayed during his chairmanship from 1985 to 2010. While many may have been harmed by Fayed, only those whose claims involve Harrods are eligible to participate.

Continuing outreach and recognition of unidentified survivors

Since 2023, the majority of individuals who have contacted Harrods have reached financial settlements, but the company acknowledges that other survivors may still remain unidentified. Harrods continues to encourage anyone who believes they may be eligible to come forward and seek redress through the Scheme.

Application for Harrods Redress Scheme

If you are or were associated with Harrods and you are a survivor of sexual misconduct by Mohamed Fayed, please:

1. Prioritise your wellbeing
   Before engaging in the Redress Scheme, please ensure you have a strong support network. Revisiting past trauma can trigger emotional and physical distress. Mental health support is strongly encouraged.
2. Contact Oakwood Solicitors
   Reach out to our specialist team at Oakwood Solicitors. We will begin gathering the necessary evidence and documentation. Our legal team will also explain the Scheme Advisory Note, which outlines:
   • Who is eligible
   • What confidentiality protections are in place
   • How the Redress Scheme process works
3. Begin your application
   Once formally instructed, our experienced legal professionals in historic sexual abuse cases will begin preparing your Redress Scheme application on your behalf.
4. Engagement with MPL Legal
   Your dedicated case handler will contact MPL Legal, the firm instructed by Harrods, to submit and discuss your application in accordance with the scheme guidelines.
5. Case review by MPL Legal
   MPL Legal will assess your application based on its individual merits and circumstances. Every case is reviewed carefully and compassionately, with no requirement for oral testimony.

Important: Each application will be treated with discretion and respect, and strict confidentiality measures are in place throughout the process.

Confidentiality and survivor care

The Harrods Redress Scheme has been carefully designed to be trauma-informed, confidential, and survivor-focused. All communication between Oakwood Solicitors and MPL Legal will be handled with the utmost discretion, sensitivity, and respect. Strict confidentiality measures are embedded within the scheme to protect the identity and privacy of applicants.

Support services available

If you are affected by the issues outlined above, additional emotional and practical support is available through the UK government’s Sexual Abuse Support Services:

Sexual Abuse Support – GOV
Call 0808 500 2222 – Free and confidential

Harrods issues official statement on Mohamed Al Fayed and launches Survivor Support Initiative

Harrods has released a formal statement in response to the serious allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct involving its former Chairman and owner, Mohamed Al Fayed, who led the company from 1985 to 2010.

The statement reads:

“We are utterly appalled by the allegations of abuse perpetrated by Mohamed Al Fayed. These were the actions of an individual who was intent on abusing his power wherever he operated, and we condemn them in the strongest terms. We also acknowledge that during this time his victims were failed and for this we sincerely apologise.”

The company emphasised that the Harrods of today is vastly different from the organisation under Al Fayed’s control. A renewed corporate culture now places employee welfare and safety at its core.

“Since new information emerged in 2023 regarding historic allegations of sexual abuse by Fayed, our priority has been to resolve claims swiftly, with compassion and integrity avoiding prolonged legal proceedings for the women affected.”

Harrods reaffirmed its commitment to justice and transparency, stating:

“While we cannot undo the past, we are determined to do the right thing guided by the values we uphold today and ensure that such behaviour can never be repeated.”

Appointment of Independent Survivor Advocate – Dame Jasvinder Sanghera

As part of its commitment to survivor care, Harrods has appointed Dame Jasvinder Sanghera, a nationally recognised advocate for victims of sexual abuse, as an Independent Survivor Advocate. Her role will include:

• Acting as a confidential, external point of contact for survivors navigating the claims process.
• Ensuring survivor welfare and trauma-informed care are prioritized throughout.
• Supporting Harrods in upholding safeguarding and accountability measures as part of its newly launched Redress Scheme.

This move ensures that survivors engaging with Harrods have access to independent guidance and advocacy, separate from the company itself.

Why should I use Oakwood Solicitors to make my claim?

After sustaining an assault, we understand that the last thing an individual wants to do is progress through a stressful claims experience.

If you or a loved one have been impacted by Mohamed Al Fayed’s actions, we are here to help and support you. At Oakwood Solicitors, we want to take away the stress of progressing with an assault claim while also helping you obtain the compensation to which you are entitled.

Further information and contacts:

Harrods’ Formal statement – Harrods

Harrods Redress Scheme – Oakwood Solicitors

If you wish to contact Dame Jasvinder, please send an email to contact@survivoradvocate.co.uk.

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