Hundreds of people with convictions had these overturned by legislation known as the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Act which passed into law in May 2024. This covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with similar legislation introduced for Scotland in June 2024.
This clears people’s names, delivers justice and ensures swifter access to financial redress.
The Ministry of Justice is identifying convictions within the scope of the Act in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and the Scottish Government is doing so in Scotland. On 30 July 2024, the UK Government published an updated open letter to postmasters setting out the process which can be read here.
On 30 July 2024, the Government announced that the new Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme (HCRS) was open for people whose convictions were quashed by this legislation. The scheme is UK-wide and is being administered by the Department for Business and Trade. Details on how to register for the scheme can be found on the Government’s website here.
Prior to the legislation, appeals of convictions were being addressed through established court procedure. Those whose convictions have been overturned by the courts are being provided with financial redress through the Overturned Convictions redress arrangements, which are administered by Post Office. More information is available here.
Appeals process for criminal convictions
People whose convictions are not covered by the Act can apply to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), more information is available here.
The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The CCRC is an independent body and their service is free. They are familiar with Post Office cases, conduct individual investigations and reviews, and decide whether cases should be referred to the appeal courts. Cases referred by the CCRC must be heard by the appeal courts who then determine the safety of convictions. Information about the CCRC and application forms can be found on their website. Information on the Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission can be found here.
If you think your conviction has been affected by recent findings about the Capture system, can also contact the CCRC (or SCCRC if you were convicted in Scotland).
If you wish to get in touch with Post Office about your conviction you can do so at disclosure@postoffice.co.uk and we will do our best to help.
Citizens Advice Support
Post Office has engaged Citizens Advice to provide a service offering confidential support and information for people who may want to consider appeals.
Citizens Advice is a network of independent charities, offering free, confidential and impartial advice to help you find a way forward. They provide advice on things like money and debt, work, benefits and more, either online or over the phone.
Their web address/link for more information is here.
Or they can be contacted by phone on 01670 339777.
This service is open 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday.
There is also an online form here where clients can request a call back at a more convenient time if they prefer.
More information about financial redress for overturned convictions can be found here.