The public consultation period on the proposed government scheme of compensation for the Windrush generation, who have faced difficulties in demonstrating their lawful status under the immigration system, will close on 16 November at 5pm.

The compensation scheme was proposed following the national scandal of members of the Windrush generation being denied their citizenship. There were reports of people facing wrongful deportation, losing employment and being unable to access healthcare due to the government’s policy of increased immigration checks with a high burden of proof. Amber Rudd, Home Secretary, resigned in response to the scandal and Prime Minster Theresa May apologised.

The ‘Windrush’ generation are so called after the Empire Windrush that arrived in the UK on 22 June 1948 carrying passengers from the Caribbean who were invited by the UK government to help rebuild the country after the Second World War It is estimated that around 550, 000 people from the Caribbean migrated to the UK between 1948 and 1973.

The Lambeth community played a key role in raising awareness of the scandal and supporting residents affected. In May 2018, new Home Secretary Sajid Javid appointed Martin Forde QC as the independent advisor to the scheme and launched a call for evidence.

Lambeth Council has responded to the call for evidence, urging the Home Office to ensure the scheme is as fair and flexible as possible. You can also submit your views.