Trial compensation scheme opens for Post Office Capture scandal victims (150 stores)
Postmasters affected by shortfalls caused by the faulty Capture accounting software can now apply for compensation under the Government’s new Capture Redress Scheme, launched on 29th October.
The scheme follows an investigation by forensic accountants Kroll Associates, which found that the software — used between 1992 and 2000 — likely caused financial losses, forcing some postmasters to cover shortfalls from their own savings.
Developed in consultation with affected postmasters and informed by lessons from the Horizon IT Scandal schemes (which have paid out over £1.2 billion to 9,000 victims), the new scheme offers:
£10,000 preliminary payments once eligibility is confirmed,
Final awards assessed by an independent panel, ranging from £10,000 to £300,000, with higher sums possible in exceptional cases.
The rollout begins with 150 initial claimants to test fairness and accessibility before expansion. All payments will be tax-free and excluded from means-tested benefits.
Applications to the Capture Redress Scheme can be made via GOV.UK with full guidance available online about how the process works. Please find this here.
SGF hopes this has been useful for keeping members informed.