The Windrush commissioner, Rev Clive Foster, is urging ministers to commit to providing funding for legal support for individuals affected by the Windrush scandal. This call seeks a commitment by the end of October.
Singer and television personality Mel B has expressed that she is “heartbroken” by the fight for justice faced by Windrush scandal victims. She is among public figures, including television presenter Alison Hammond and former justice secretary David Lammy, who are backing Foster's appeal to end the disparity in legal support.
In a letter seen by the Guardian, Foster urged migration minister Jo White to commit to funding legal support at the Windrush National Organisation conference in Birmingham on 30 October. This is intended to demonstrate the government's seriousness in addressing the issue.
Research led by the University of Sussex indicated that the average successful compensation claim increased from £11,400 to £83,200 after legal assistance. Despite this, the UK government has not provided funded independent legal support for Windrush compensation claimants, unlike those affected by the Post Office and infected blood scandals.
The Home Office stated that the Windrush compensation scheme has paid over £132 million across 4,177 claims. In January, major reforms to the scheme were implemented, and a spokesperson added that the home secretary is determined to rectify the injustices caused by the scandal.