Harrods appoints advocate for survivors after Al Fayed allegations


Harrods has appointed a survivors’ advocate, human rights campaigner Dame Jasvinder Sanghera, to assist victims of sexual misconduct that was allegedly carried out by its former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed. More than 20 women accused Al Fayed of sexual assault in a BBC documentary and podcast named Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods, which aired in September. Since then, additional women have come forward with allegations of rape, harassment, and assault. Leigh Day, a law firm, claims to have been contacted by more than 100 women. Justice for Harrods Survivors, an organization representing some of Al Fayed’s victims, maintains that an impartial, transparent, and powerful process is the only way to meet the survivors’ needs.

In her role, Dame Jasvinder Sanghera will meet with as many survivors as possible and assist them through Harrods’ claims process. Harrods said that over 290 people are currently cooperating in the compensation process. The Dame Jasvinder appointment will continue the claims process, which incorporates compensation repayment and counseling. Harrods explained that its appointment of a survivors’ advocate was an extension of the claims process and that Dame Jasvinder’s experience in helping women impacted by sexual assault would provide more comprehensive trauma-informed support.

Dame Jasvinder made a statement, stating that survivors “deserve representation from someone who genuinely understands and prioritizes their best interests.” She stated that Al Fayed was “a predator who exploited his position and power to systematically abuse women in various settings.” She is honored to be part of this initiative because she believes that Harrods wants to get it right.

According to Justice for Harrods Survivors, more than 400 alleged victims and witnesses made contact during a press conference last Thursday. The lawsuits are mostly related to Harrods, while others relate to incidents that took place when Al Fayed owned Fulham FC and the Ritz Paris hotel. Survivors from the UK, America, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia are included among those stepping forward. Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods, which aired in September, featured testimony from over 20 former Harrods employees. The documentary discovered that while Al Fayed was in charge, Harrods not only failed to act but also helped to conceal allegations of abuse. Harrods’ current owners issued a statement in response to the investigation, expressing their dismay and apologizing for failing victims

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