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The Communities Paper, the third in a series published as part of the inquiry’s listening project In Your Own Words, draws on over 300 written submissions and engagement sessions held across the UK. 

It documents how those affected experienced social exclusion, damaged reputations, and in some cases felt forced to leave the communities they had served for years.

Many respondents told how the impact of the scandal made them feel their good name had been “spoiled.” A lot of people reported losing their homes and livelihoods resulting in serious family tension and issues.

Many contributors described feeling unable to remain part of their communities after losing their standing and good name.

Another respondent said: “I am forced to live alone with no community ties, lots of times [I] can’t look at people in their eyes, as if I am of a lot lower status than anyone else.”

Some contributors said they left their homes because of the shame and embarrassment they experienced, as well as concerns about their safety. They felt that leaving the community they knew was the only option open to them.

People also spoke about the effects on others. In some areas, the closure of Post Offices changed daily life, especially for elderly and vulnerable residents who relied on local services.

One participant said: “Post offices are important, they describe themselves as ‘the heart of the community’, they bring shoppers, so it makes it harder to attract local businesses and shoppers when there isn’t one. 

“It makes life more difficult for everyone especially older or less mobile people - they have lost independence because they ‘can’t even post a letter’ by themselves. It’s been a huge loss to our community.”

While some contributors reported greater empathy and support after the airing of television programmes, including the ITV drama and increased media coverage of the scandal, others said that they remain vigilant and feel that many in their communities still believe they were guilty.

Leila Pilgrim, secretary to the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry, said: “This paper reflects the voices of people whose lives were changed not just personally, but within the communities they called home. 

“We are grateful to everyone who has trusted us with their story. Their accounts remind us that the impact of the Horizon scandal extended far beyond the individual, and that understanding this is essential as we look to the future.”

The inquiry continues to welcome In Your Own Words contributions from those who have not yet shared their experiences, or who want to make a further submission before the project closes.