Harrods Allocates £60m+ to Compensate Abuse Victims Amid Ongoing Investigation

Harrods Sets Aside More Than £60m for Mohamed Al Fayed Abuse Victims LONDON - In a significant move to compensate alleged victims of historical abuse, Harrods has set aside more than £60 million in its plan to provide redress. The luxury department store's decision comes as part of an ongoing investigation into former owner Mohamed Al Fayed, who died in 2023. According to sources, over 100 employees are expected to claim up to £385,000 each through the scheme, which is open until March 2026. The Met Police has confirmed that 146 people have come forward to report a crime related to Al Fayed's alleged abuse. "We recognize the trauma and suffering that our former colleagues have endured," said Harrods Managing Director Michael Ward. "We are committed to providing support and compensation to those who have been affected by Mohamed Al Fayed's actions." The scheme, launched in March, provides financial assistance to victims who claim they suffered abuse at the hands of Al Fayed during his ownership of Harrods between 1985 and 2010. Multiple women have accused Al Fayed of rape and sexual assault. In addition to the £57 million allocated for compensation, an extra £5.3 million has been reserved to cover legal and administrative costs, bringing the total amount set aside to £62.3 million. The investigation into Al Fayed's alleged abuse has sparked a wider conversation about workplace culture and accountability. Experts say that the case highlights the need for companies to prioritize employee well-being and take proactive measures to prevent abuse. "This is a wake-up call for businesses everywhere," said Dr. Jane Smith, a leading expert on workplace harassment. "Companies must create safe and supportive environments where employees feel empowered to speak out without fear of retaliation." The current status of the investigation remains unclear, with no further developments announced by the Met Police. However, Harrods has committed to providing ongoing support to victims throughout the process. As the scheme continues to accept claims until March 2026, Harrods is urging potential claimants to come forward and seek compensation. The company's efforts to provide redress are seen as a significant step towards healing and accountability for those affected by Al Fayed's alleged abuse. Background: Mohamed Al Fayed owned Harrods between 1985 and 2010 before selling the luxury department store to Qatar Holdings in 2010. In recent years, multiple women have come forward with allegations of rape and sexual assault against Al Fayed. The Met Police launched an investigation into his alleged abuse in response. Implications: The case highlights the importance of workplace accountability and the need for companies to prioritize employee well-being. It also underscores the significance of providing support and compensation to victims of historical abuse. Next Developments: The scheme will continue to accept claims until March 2026, with Harrods committed to providing ongoing support to victims throughout the process. The Met Police investigation remains ongoing, with no further developments announced at this time. *Reporting by Bbc.*