Windrush scheme changes 'will make a real difference'

CHANGES to the Windrush compensation scheme have been welcomed for ageing victims who "don't have time on their side" - but the Government has been warned further progress is needed.

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The Home Office said claimants will now be paid up to 75% of their compensation in advance and victims will also be compensated for lost contributions to a work or personal pension for the first time.

Priority will now be given to applications from people aged 75 and over as well as people with serious health conditions, the department said, with the aim of speeding up justice for elderly and vulnerable people.

The changes follow criticism of the scheme as being slow, opaque, unjust, overwhelming and retraumatising for applicants.