September 05, 2025
Jamradio Newsdesk | Political Affairs |
Reverend Clive Foster MBE, the UK’s first independent Windrush Commissioner, has issued a blistering call for reform of the Windrush Compensation Scheme, describing it as “opaque and unjust” and warning that delays are retraumatising survivors.
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In a formal letter to Immigration Minister Seema Malhotra—copied to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper—Foster cited Home Office records showing that 66 people have died while waiting for compensation, a statistic he says reflects a “deeply concerning” lack of urgency. He relayed a sentiment heard repeatedly from affected communities:
“The Home Office is waiting for us to die off.”
While Foster clarified that he does not personally share this view, he stressed the importance of communicating it directly to ministers as a reflection of the trust deficit they must urgently address.
The Commissioner’s recommendations include:
- A trauma-informed overhaul of the compensation process
- Immediate updates on pension loss reviews
- Greater support for applicants navigating the scheme
- Outreach to overseas communities entitled to Windrush status
- A reconciliation-led approach to prevent future injustices
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A Critical Moment Ahead of the WNO Annual Conference
With the Windrush National Organisation (WNO) Annual Conference set for October—The new Commissioner [a former executive of the WNO] may be expected to make a public appearance—momentum is building for structural change. The conference will likely serve as a flashpoint for survivors, advocates, and policymakers demanding transparency, justice, and accountability via a full public inquiry into the Home office Scandal.
In a direct response to these challenges, the Office of the Windrush Commissioner is now recruiting Lived Experience Engagement Officers to help shape the future of the scheme. These roles are designed to ensure that the voices of those affected are not only heard—but actively inform policy and practice.
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