Survivors of abuse often face emotional, physical, and psychological harm that can last a lifetime. In the UK, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) provides a route to secure abuse compensation for those who have suffered such injustices. At Concise Medico, we specialise in helping victims make successful CICA abuse claims, ensuring they receive the financial support they deserve.
Understanding the CICA Scheme for Abuse Claims
The CICA scheme is a government-funded initiative that compensates victims of violent crimes, including sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Claims can be made for:
- Historic abuse, including childhood abuse
- Sexual assault or rape
- Domestic violence or coercive control
- Abuse within institutions, such as schools, care homes, or religious settings
To qualify, the abuse must be reported to the police, and the application must generally be made within two years of reporting though exceptions are possible for historic abuse.
Eligibility Criteria for CICA Abuse Claims
To lodge a successful CICA abuse claim, claimants must meet specific requirements:
- Residency: You must be a British citizen or have a right to reside in the UK.
- Police Report: The abuse must have been reported to the police and a reference number obtained.
- Time Limit: Claims are usually submitted within 2 years of the abuse being reported. Extensions are granted for good reasons, particularly in childhood abuse cases.
- Cooperation: You must have cooperated reasonably with the police during their investigation.
Common Types of Abuse Compensation Claims
We support victims across a wide range of abuse compensation cases:
- Childhood Sexual Abuse: Many survivors only come forward decades later. We help overcome time-bar challenges and present compelling evidence.
- Domestic Abuse: Victims of physical or psychological abuse in relationships can qualify, especially if police involvement is documented.
- Institutional Abuse: Abuse by clergy, teachers, or carers can be reported even if it happened many years ago.
- Elder Abuse: Mistreatment in care facilities is grounds for CICA compensation.
How Much Abuse Compensation Can You Receive?
Compensation varies depending on the severity and impact of the abuse. The CICA tariff system outlines potential awards, which may include:
| Type of Injury | Typical Award Range |
| Sexual abuse (single incident) | £1,000 – £11,000 |
| Repeated abuse over time | £11,000 – £44,000 |
| Mental health trauma | £1,000 – £27,000 |
| Physical injuries | £1,000 – £250,000 |
| Loss of earnings (max 28 weeks) | Based on national rates |
Additional expenses like therapy, medical treatment, and special equipment may be covered if directly linked to the abuse.
Maximising the Success of Your Claim
A successful CICA abuse claim hinges on:
- Detailed Evidence: Gather police reports, medical records, therapy notes, and witness statements.
- Clear Timelines: Provide an accurate history of events, even if the abuse happened decades ago.
- Professional Representation: CICA decisions can be complex. Legal professionals can ensure your claim is fully optimised, challenge incorrect decisions, and appeal unfair rejections.
- Psychological Assessments: These can substantiate mental health impacts and justify higher compensation brackets.
Common Reasons CICA Claims Are Rejected
Understanding the pitfalls helps avoid them:
- Delay in Reporting to Police: Unless justifiably delayed, this can lead to rejections.
- Lack of Evidence: Without medical or police corroboration, claims may be dismissed.
- Unspent Criminal Convictions: If the victim has recent convictions, the award may be reduced or denied unless exceptional circumstances exist.
Appealing a CICA Rejection
If your claim is rejected or the award seems too low, an appeal can be filed within 56 days of the decision. This involves:
- Submitting additional supporting evidence
- Attending a tribunal hearing
- Having a legal representative argue the case before a panel
Why Choose Professional Help?
Making a CICA claim alone can be daunting. With our expertise:
- We complete all paperwork accurately and efficiently
- We liaise with CICA on your behalf
- We prepare robust appeals when needed
- We ensure you claim for everything you’re entitled to including psychological injury, physical trauma, and financial loss
Our success rate in abuse compensation claims speaks for itself.
Start Your CICA Abuse Claim Today
Every survivor deserves justice and recognition. If you’ve suffered abuse, let us help you secure the compensation you’re entitled to under the CICA scheme. Our specialist team handles each case with empathy, confidentiality, and legal precision.
Contact us today to begin your confidential consultation and take the first step toward healing and justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim it if the abuser was not convicted?
Yes. A conviction is not required. CICA awards are based on the balance of probabilities, not criminal standards of proof.
Can I claim for abuse that happened over 30 years ago?
Yes. Historic abuse claims are accepted, particularly if you only recently felt able to report it to the police.
Will I need to go to court?
No. CICA is an administrative scheme. While appeals may involve a tribunal, they are not criminal court cases.
What if I don’t know the identity of the abuser?
You can still claim, provided you reported the abuse to police and they have a crime record.
