Post Office Scandal: Victims Denounce Compensation Process as “Cruel” and “Never-Ending”

Victims of the Post Office Horizon IT scandal have expressed profound frustration and despair over the ongoing compensation process, describing it as “cruel,” “never-ending,” and deliberately designed to exhaust them into abandoning their claims. Despite years passing since the truth of the faulty accounting system was revealed, many former sub-postmasters are still entangled in protracted settlement negotiations.

A recent inquiry report has underscored the devastating and “disastrous” impact the scandal has had on individuals wrongly accused and prosecuted for criminal offenses. The systemic failures led to the downfall of numerous sub-postmasters, tarnishing reputations and causing immense personal suffering.

Maria Lockwood, a former sub-postmaster from Huddersfield, voiced her deep-seated dissatisfaction, stating that compensation could have been settled much earlier. Instead, she characterized the current process as “cruel, cruel.” This sentiment was echoed by numerous victims who appeared on BBC Breakfast, collectively agreeing that the compensation schemes appear engineered to make claimants give up.

The difficulties are compounded by requests for evidence dating back over two decades, a formidable task for many who have already endured years of legal battles and emotional distress. Tracy Felstead, who was tragically imprisoned at the young age of 19 due to the scandal, shared her ongoing struggle. Her claim, filed in February, has so far only resulted in repetitive requests for more information, leaving her feeling perpetually stalled.

Adding to the skepticism, Scott Darlington, a former sub-postmaster of Alderley Edge Post Office, expressed doubt about the government’s commitment to implementing the inquiry’s recommendations. He highlighted a historical tendency for authorities to avoid fulfilling obligations, raising concerns that the report’s findings might not translate into meaningful action or timely justice for the victims.