Hartlepool Records Only Three Riot Compensation Claims

Only three claims for riot compensation were submitted in a town impacted by this summer’s civil disorder. The BBC has ascertained that Hartlepool filed just three claims under the Riot Compensation Scheme, in contrast to 11 from Sunderland and 35 from Middlesbrough. Rob Davison, who operates Spacebar Arcade in Sunderland, a business that sustained smoke and physical damage, has submitted a claim. He expressed his belief that the low number of claims might be attributable to “businesses not being aware.” Cleveland’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) reported that three drop-in sessions were conducted to promote the program. Rioting commenced in Hartlepool on July 31, followed by Sunderland on August 2, and Middlesbrough on August 4. The Riot Compensation Act stipulates that victims of criminal damage during civil unrest in England and Wales are entitled to claim for losses, even if they lack insurance or their insurance policy will not disburse funds. In response to Freedom of Information requests, the offices of both Cleveland and Northumbria PCCs disclosed the number of compensation claims they had received under the scheme. The Office of the Cleveland PCC stated it had not yet paid out any money to victims, whereas Northumbria declined to specify the amount of money it had distributed. Neither body confirmed whether all received claims had been accepted. Mr. Davison mentioned that he became aware of the scheme only through a neighboring business. He stated he had filed a compensation claim but characterized the process as “very slow,” adding that he had not yet received an update on its success. “As a small business, we’re relying on this compensation to cover repair costs,” he said. “In the meantime, I’ve had to cover these expenses out of pocket.” Idrees Rashid, from Middlesbrough’s community interest group BME Network, indicated that the compensation scheme had been extensively publicized in the town. He also noted that voluntary organizations adopted a “proactive role,” with individuals engaging in “door-to-door to speak with residents affected by the disorder.” The Cleveland PCC suggested that some individuals affected by the riots might have received insurance payouts, thereby not requiring the compensation scheme. Conversely, the Northumbria PCC stated that some claims it received from Sunderland were submitted on behalf of “several occupants.” It also confirmed using media channels to publicize the scheme. Both organizations affirmed that individuals who believe they qualify can still apply for the scheme.