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Windrush Compensation Advocacy Support Fund (WCASF)

Greatway Foundation was selected as one of ten organisations across the UK to receive funding from the £1.5 million Windrush Compensation Advocacy Support Fund (WCASF), supported by the UK Home Office.

This funding enables us to provide dedicated support to victims of the Windrush scandal ensuring that no one is left behind.

FAQs on the Windrush Compensation Scheme

We’ve answered the most common questions about the scheme, including:

1. Who can apply?

   Anyone from the Windrush generation or their descendants who has been affected by the loss of rights, employment, housing, or access to services due to immigration status issues. You may be eligible if you:

   • Arrived in the UK from a Commonwealth country before 1 January 1973;
   • Are the child, grandchild, or close relative of someone who arrived during that period; or
   • Experienced harm because you could not prove your lawful status, even if you were legally entitled to be in the UK.

   If you’re not sure whether you qualify, our advocates can assess your circumstances confidentially.

2. What losses are covered?

   The scheme provides compensation for a wide range of harms, including:

   • Loss of employment or income
   • Impact on life and family relationships
   • Wrongful detention or removal from the UK
   • Denied access to healthcare, education, or housing
   • Legal and out-of-pocket expenses
   • Emotional distress caused by the situation

   Each claim is reviewed individually, and awards are based on the severity and evidence of loss.

3. What do I need to prepare?

   Before applying, it helps to gather documents that show your identity, residence, and experiences in the UK, such as:

   • Passport, birth certificate, or other ID
   • Employment or tax records
   • Rent agreements, council tax, or utility bills
   • NHS or school records
   • Letters or emails from the Home Office
   • A personal statement describing how this affected your life

   If you do not have all the documents, don’t worry, our team can help you locate or substitute the evidence you need.

4. What do I need to prepare?

   Yes. Greatway Foundation’s Windrush advocates offer free, confidential, and culturally sensitive support.
   We can:

   • Help you check your eligibility
   • Explain the claim form and supporting documents
   • Assist in writing your personal statement
   • Liaise with lawyers or relevant agencies
   • Follow up on your application with the Home Office

5. How long does the process take?

   Timeframes vary depending on your claim’s complexity.

   • Simple cases may take a few months.
   • More complex claims may take longer while evidence is reviewed.

   You will receive regular updates, and our team will stay in touch to ensure you feel informed and supported at every step.

6. Is there a deadline to apply?

   There is currently no final deadline, but applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Submitting early helps ensure that you don’t miss out on support or compensation you are entitled to. Our team can help you start your claim even if you’re still gathering documents.

7. Is my information kept confidential?

   Absolutely. All personal details and documents shared with the Greatway Foundation are kept strictly confidential. We follow data protection laws and ensure your information is only used to help process your claim.

8. Can family members apply on behalf of someone who has passed away?

   Yes. If a person affected by the Windrush scandal has passed away, their family or estate representative can still make a claim on their behalf. Our advocates can guide you through the required documentation and next steps for these applications.

9. What happens after I submit my claim?

   After submission:

   • You’ll receive an acknowledgment from the Home Office.
   • Your claim will be reviewed and assessed.
   • You may be contacted for more information or documents.
   • Once approved, you’ll receive a compensation offer and explanation of how it was calculated.

   Our team can help you understand your offer and, if needed, assist with a review or appeal.

10. Where can I get more information?

    You can find the full Windrush Compensation Scheme guidance on the UK Government website: www.gov.uk/windrush-compensation-scheme Or contact us directly for free one-to-one advice and community support:
    Email: info@greatwayfoundation.org.uk
    Phone: +44 7904 416687
    Website: www.greatwayfoundation.org.uk/Windrush

Downloadable Claim Readiness Checklist

The Windrush Compensation Scheme was created to help those who suffered loss because they could not prove their lawful immigration status in the UK. Before starting your claim, it’s important to make sure you have the right information and evidence ready.

Our downloadable Claim Readiness Checklist (PDF) helps you:

• Confirm if you’re eligible to apply.
• Organise key documents in advance.
• Track what you’ve completed and what’s still needed.
• Access trusted support when you need help.

Download Claim Readiness Checklist

Book a free consultation: Contact an Advocate

Behind every claim is a story and behind every story is someone who deserves to be heard. Our advocates are here to listen, support, and stand with you every step of the way.

Book a Consultation

Need help starting or completing your claim? Please send an email to info@greatwayfoundation.org.uk with your Full Name, Email Address, Phone Number (optional), and a brief message explaining how we can assist you. Our trained advocates will provide you with a free consultation.

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