Following a recommendation from Martin Forde QC, the
independent adviser appointed to oversee the
development of the scheme, the decision was made to
extend the period of time that people have to respond.
The consultation will now close on 16 November 2018.
Based on his engagement with community groups and the
roadshows he is undertaking across the country, Martin
Forde advised that it was clear people needed more time
to respond.
The Home Secretary has committed to listening to the
widest possible range of voices, including those
affected and their families, community groups and
specialist legal representatives and extending the
consultation will ensure that this is possible.
In addition, the Home Secretary has announced that a
framework will be developed to make individual payments
ahead of the compensation scheme in urgent and
exceptional cases.
Martin Forde QC said:
I have travelled around the country to seek the views
of those affected and it became very clear to me that
people need more time to engage with the
consultation.
With that in mind, and on my advice, the consultation
has been extended. This will help us get as many
views as possible and make sure we can design an
effective and fair compensation scheme.
Home Secretary said:
I’ve been clear that we must right the wrongs
experienced by the Windrush generation and the
compensation scheme is a key part of that.
It is absolutely vital we get the scheme right and
give everyone who wants to participate in the
consultation the chance to input their views.
In the meantime, we will ensure that individual
payments are made in urgent and exceptional cases
Following the consultation, the priority of the Home
Secretary is to establish a compensation scheme which
will start making payments as soon as possible.
There are already several measures and initiatives in
place to help those of the Windrush generation who are
concerned about benefits, housing or employment. A
dedicated team for vulnerable people has been set up
within the Windrush Taskforce, it has already assisted
over 450 people where an urgent need for support or
advice was identified.
In addition, a Fast-Track service with the Department
for Work and Pensions has been established to arrange
access to benefits; steps to secure accommodation with
local authorities for those identified as homeless; and
interim guidance to employers and landlords. An
agreement with Citizens Advice has also been put in
place to provide bespoke professional advice to anyone
experiencing immediate financial problems.
