Call 0113 266 0735 or email info@bailoransolicitors.com to arrange a free, confidential, fact finding call or meeting at our Leeds offices
The Post Office Horizon Scandal is the largest miscarriage of justice in modern English history. Lives have been devastated as a result of postmasters and sub-postmasters being wrongly pursued by the Post Office, with many being prosecuted and convicted for crimes they didn’t commit.
Horizon Shortfall Scheme Appeals Process
In September 2024, the Government announced that an independent Horizon Shortfall Scheme Appeals (HSSA) process would be introduced. This was to ensure that Horizon Shortfall Scheme (HSS) claimants have the full opportunity to receive fair compensation and redress.
HSS: The deadline for submitting new applications to the Horizon Shortfall Scheme was 31 January 2026.
In October 2025, the Government announced that those who accepted the £75,000 Fixed Sum Offer (FSO) will be able to seek permission to appeal to HSSA. Claimants will be able to receive free legal advice and support, and crucially will not risk being paid less that the £75,000 they have already received. This process is not available yet (scheme expected to open Summer 2026).
The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and Post Office should be contacting eligible postmasters’ representatives (or postmasters directly) but you do not need to wait – register your interest with us and we will contact you when the scheme opens.
Independent process
Whilst the Horizon Shortfall Scheme (HSS) is run by the Post Office, HSSA is independent and is operated by DBT. Please note, the Post Office may provide information relating to your case to DBT but crucially, it will not be involved in any claim or assessment of an appeal.
The HSSA aims to independently assess and resolve claims by postmasters whose previous financial settlement did not reflect the true extent of their losses and trauma. This will be of particular importance to individuals who may not have been aware that they could claim for certain losses (or who’s claim for those losses was deemed ‘not recoverable by the Post Office) or who did not receive legal support to dispute their offer.
No legal fees
The DBT funds legal advice for postmasters in HSSA in accordance with a tariff and the cost will not be taken from any redress you receive. Bailoran Solicitors has agreed to this tariff and not to charge postmasters for this work.
Please click here for the most up to date Government issued eligibility criteria for the HSSA.
If you are unsure about any aspect of the HSSA, including eligibility and timeframes, please get in touch as we’ll be happy to chat through your options on a no obligation basis.
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Horizon Family Member Redress Scheme
The Government has announced proposals for the Horizon Family Members Redress Scheme, which is expected to open Summer 2026. DBT has designed this scheme in partnership with the family campaign group Lost Chances. More information on the Government’s proposals can be found here.
Capture Redress Scheme
The UK Government has now launched the Capture Redress Scheme, offering long-overdue justice to postmasters who suffered financial losses due to the faulty “Capture” software used between 1992 and 2000 – predating the Horizon scandal. The Capture Redress Scheme is open now, with each applicant receiving an immediate preliminary payment of £10,000 once eligibility is confirmed. An independent panel will assess final awards of up to £300,000, with higher payments possible in exceptional cases.
DBT funds legal advice for eligible postmasters in accordance with a tariff and the cost will not be taken from any redress you receive. Bailoran Solicitors has agreed to this tariff and not to charge postmasters for this work.
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How can we help?
- Compensation Claims: We can guide you through the process of pursuing compensation, taking all relevant factors into account to maximise your claim.
- Horizon Shortfall Scheme (HSS) Compensation Review: We provide legal advice for those offered compensation payments through the Horizon Shortfall Scheme.
- Applying to the HSSA: We provide legal support for all aspects of the HSSA process, including helping you decide whether to appeal, and then in making and managing your appeal.
- Post Office Suspension Remuneration Scheme: We can help you apply for compensation through the Suspension Remuneration Review scheme and review compensation offers.
- Overturning Convictions: Through our professional network we can connect you with legal experts who will work to quash wrongful convictions and restore your reputation.
- Understanding Financial Implications: We can connect you with experts who can advise on the tax and other financial implications of payments made by the Post Office, including compensation payments.
- Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme (HCRS): We can support individuals to register for the Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme.
- Capture Redress Scheme: We provide legal support for those who suffered financial shortfalls due to the defective Capture software between 1992 and 2000.
Why choose Bailoran?
- Experience: We have experience representing multiple victims of the Horizon Scandal, building strong cases that address the unique legal and personal aspects of these claims.
- Empathetic Approach: We recognise the emotional and financial toll the Horizon Scandal has taken on the lives of those affected. You can count on us for clear communication and compassionate support throughout the process.
- Tailored Representation: We craft strategies that reflect your specific circumstances, ensuring your case receives the attention it deserves.
- Determined Advocacy: We are dedicated to helping you achieve a fair outcome and will fight to secure you the compensation you are entitled to.
- Comprehensive Support: From start to finish, we are here to provide sensitive, professional, reliable advice and representation.
We’re here to help so contact us via the contact form or call our offices on 0113 266 0735 for a no-obligation chat.