Banks have refunded almost £35,000 to victims who were sold fake funeral plans by Hull undertaker Robert Bush, an MP said. Emma Hardy MP campaigned for the refunds, stating that many victims had suffered significant distress after spending their life savings on the policies.
Barclays, Lloyds, Santander, Natwest, Nationwide, and Virgin made goodwill refunds to their customers, which Ms Hardy hopes will provide "at least some measure of justice."
Bush was sentenced to 20 years in prison in July for denying 30 people a decent burial, theft, and fraudulent trading, including selling fake funeral policies. Hull Crown Court heard he defrauded nearly 200 families out of £562,117.
Some victims, particularly those who paid cash for their plans, remain out of pocket. Ms Hardy's office stated it is more difficult to obtain refunds for these families as there was no bank withdrawal to prove the purchase alongside their receipt.
Twelve charities also suffered financially due to Bush stealing cash donations from collection boxes. Jerry Thompson, Chair of the Hull Fishing Heritage Centre, which lost an unknown amount, hopes a forthcoming Proceeds of Crime Hearing may help recoup lost donations. This hearing is listed for a mention on Monday, 16 November at Hull Crown Court.