Sub-postmasters affected by the Horizon scandal invited to shape Legacy Project through focus group
The Inquiry is inviting current and former sub-postmasters impacted by the Horizon scandal, or their chosen family or friend, to join a series of focus groups, where they can shape its upcoming Legacy Project.
What is the Legacy Project?
The Inquiry’s Legacy Project will be a homage to those affected by the Horizon scandal.
Created alongside those affected, the Legacy Project will mark the Horizon scandal in history and ensure its effects cannot be forgotten.
Launched in October 2023, the Legacy Project has already hosted several engagement events to better understand people’s thoughts and views.
Why is the Inquiry organising focus groups with postmasters?
To make sure their voices are heard, the Inquiry is inviting people affected by the Horizon scandal to join a series of focus groups.
A focus group is where a small group of people take part in an organised, guided discussion, led by a facilitator.
During these focus groups, people affected by the scandal can share their ideas of what a Legacy Project means to them and what it should entail.
To get involved, please complete the registration form linked below by 26 August 2024 (12 noon).
Complete the registration form
“From very beginning, the Inquiry has put human stories at the heart of its work. I want these stories of hardship, suffering but above all else resilience to be marked in history, and this is the purpose behind the Legacy Project.
"We don’t know what the Legacy Project will look like yet, as it will rightly be shaped by those who have been directly affected by the scandal. But one thing is certain: it will ensure that the effects of the Horizon scandal cannot be erased"
- Sir Wyn Williams, Chair of the Inquiry.
Who can apply to the focus group?
The Inquiry is keen to hear from current and former sub-postmasters, or a chosen family member or friend.
What do I need to know about the focus group?
If you want to join the focus group series, please note that:
- This will require a commitment of your time over a few months as we want to fully understand your thoughts and views.
- The first meeting of this focus group will take place on 10 September in the Inquiry’s office at Aldwych House, London, WC2A 2AZ. Future meetings will take place online.
- Spaces are limited, so there will be a selection process to make sure the group reflects a wide range of regions and experiences.
To get involved, please complete the registration form linked below by 26 August 2024 (12:00pm).
Complete the registration form
Alternatively, you can contact us by email at engagement@postofficehorizoninquiry.org.uk.
Are there other ways to get involved in the Legacy Project?
Joining the focus group is not the only way people can contribute to the Legacy Project.
There will be other opportunities to contribute through further engagement sessions.
Additionally, our listening project, In Your Own Words (IYOW), is a space where people affected by the scandal can share their stories and experiences.
Any experiences shared will also help inform the Legacy Project.
Share your story through In Your Own Words
How has the Inquiry been working together with people affected by the scandal on the Legacy Project?
Since the Inquiry announced the Legacy Project in 2023, it has hosted several engagement events to hear people’s thoughts on what a Legacy Project would mean to them and what it should cover.
During these sessions, the Inquiry heard from:
- former sub-postmasters
- branch managers and assistants
- family members
- others affected by the Post Office Horizon scandal.
During these initial discussions, the Inquiry was asked to consider physical memorials, social tributes (such as plaques outside post offices or exhibitions in museums), as well as a creation of a forum that would help victims come together.
Now, the Inquiry is calling on people affected by the Horizon scandal to join a focus group series, where over a few months they can help shape the Legacy Project further.
To receive updates on our work, including the development of the Legacy Project, sign up for our mailing list.
