House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Horizon Family Members Redress Scheme
19 March 2026 · Department for Business and Trade
Proposed by Blair McDougall Lab East Renfrewshire
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The minister announces enhancements to the Horizon Family Members Redress Scheme, including changes to eligibility criteria.
- Flat-rate recognition payments are introduced for family members who cannot provide specific evidence of harm.
- The department supports a restorative justice programme offering postmasters financial and practical assistance for up to five years.
Issue summary
The statement addresses the Horizon Family Members Redress Scheme for those most severely affected by the Horizon scandal.
Action requested
The minister announces enhancements to the scheme, including eligibility criteria changes and flat-rate 'recognition payments' for those who cannot provide specific evidence of harm. The department is also supporting a restorative justice programme for postmasters with financial and practical assistance for up to five years initially.
Key facts
- The Government accepted recommendation 18 from the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry report, calling for financial redress for close family members.
- Stakeholders including the Lost Chances group, lawyers, and the Horizon Compensation Advisory Board were involved in developing the scheme.
- The alternative route to redress focuses on specific stressful consequences of the Horizon scandal without requiring evidence of further harm.
- Recognition payments will be offered through a flat-rate approach for those who cannot provide specific evidence of harm.
- The Restorative Justice Council published a second report detailing postmasters' experiences and future support plans.
- The programme is financially supported by the department, Post Office, and Fujitsu for up to five years initially.