UK GOVT Financial Boost for Windrush Scandal Victims: The UK government has announced a new £1.5 million support fund to help victims of the Windrush scandal get the compensation they deserve. This new initiative, called the Windrush Compensation Advocacy Support Fund (WCASF), will provide personal support to those applying for compensation, making the process easier and more comfortable.
Many victims of the scandal have found the claims process emotionally difficult, even though it is not legally complicated. Having to remember painful past events has made it tough for many people to complete their applications alone. This fund aims to change that by giving them access to trusted advocates.
What Is the Windrush Compensation Advocacy Support Fund?
The WCASF will run for the next three years. It will give claimants access to dedicated advocates from community organisations who will guide them through each step of the compensation process.
These advocates will:
- Help gather the right documents and evidence
- Provide emotional support during the application process
- Direct applicants to extra services where needed
- Make sure each person’s story is properly heard and understood
The goal is to remove barriers and ensure no victim has to go through this alone.
Why Is This Fund Important?
The Windrush scandal wrongly affected many people who had lived in the UK for decades. They were treated as if they were illegal immigrants, even though they had every right to live here. The results were devastating—some lost jobs, were denied healthcare, and even faced deportation.
Others suffered long-term mental health issues, financial struggles, and damage to their families. Many also lost trust in the government. This new fund is designed to help rebuild that trust and make sure victims receive justice.
Government Response and Support
Seema Malhotra, Minister for Migration and Citizenship, said:
“The Windrush scandal was an appalling injustice. This £1.5 million fund is a strong step toward righting those wrongs. We are making sure victims are supported and heard at every stage of the compensation process.”
This fund is part of the government’s Plan for Change, which promises to work closely with affected communities and deliver real justice.
The Windrush Unit has also been re-established to ensure long-lasting cultural change within the Home Office. This unit will continue to focus on listening to victims and improving services for them.
Advocates That Understand the Community
A key strength of this new fund is that it was developed in consultation with over 20 organisations that serve different parts of the Windrush community. Advocates funded by the scheme will be trained to understand cultural backgrounds and support applicants in a way that feels safe and respectful.
The fund aims to make sure every compensation claim tells the full story—how people’s lives, health, jobs, and families were affected.
Windrush Commissioner Appointment Coming Soon
The government is also in the process of hiring a Windrush Commissioner—a vital role to speak up for victims at the highest level. The appointment is expected by summer 2025 and will be another important step toward lasting change.
How Can Organisations Apply for the Fund?
Virtual information sessions for groups that want to apply for the WCASF will be held on:
- 14 April 2025
- 15 April 2025
Interested organisations must register by emailing:
[email protected]
Deadline to apply: All applications must be submitted through the Find and Apply Grant portal by 5pm on 9 May 2025.
The Windrush Compensation Advocacy Support Fund is a crucial step forward in supporting the people who were wrongly treated during the Windrush scandal. With trained advocates guiding them through the process, victims will not have to face it alone. This fund not only offers emotional and practical support but also aims to restore trust, dignity, and justice. It is part of a broader government effort to fix past mistakes and show that the voices of Windrush victims truly matter.
FAQ
What is the Windrush Compensation Advocacy Support Fund (WCASF)?
It’s a £1.5 million government fund that gives Windrush victims access to community advocates who help them with compensation claims.
How long will the WCASF run?
The fund will be available for the next three years and aims to offer support throughout the full application process.
What support will advocates provide?
Advocates will help collect evidence, offer emotional support, signpost other services, and ensure each victim’s story is properly shared.
Who can apply for the fund?
Community organisations that support Windrush victims can apply to offer advocacy services funded through the WCASF.
When is the deadline to apply for the fund?
All applications must be submitted by 5pm on 9 May 2025 through the Find and Apply Grant portal.
