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Criminal Injuries Compensation For Fractured Hand

Claim Criminal Injuries Compensation For Fractured Hand

A fractured hand is a painful and disabling injury that can make everyday tasks difficult or impossible. From typing and lifting to dressing or driving, your hands are vital to almost every part of daily life. When a fractured hand is the result of a violent crime—such as an assault, robbery, or domestic attack—the injury is not only physical, but also emotionally distressing.

If you’ve suffered a fractured hand in a violent incident in England, Scotland, or Wales, you may be eligible for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). This government-funded scheme is designed to support victims of violent crime by helping them recover financially and emotionally. Whether your hand was broken during a mugging, fight, domestic assault, or gang attack, you have the right to seek compensation that reflects the impact of the fractured hand injury.

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Understanding Fractured Hand Injuries and Common Causes of Fractured Hand

Finger injuries caused by violence can vary significantly in severity and complexity. Some victims suffer clean amputations that result in immediate loss, while others may endure extensive crush injuries, deep lacerations, or nerve damage that render the digit permanently non-functional. These injuries can lead to chronic pain, long-term physical disability, and visible disfigurement, affecting both function and appearance. Common violent incidents leading to finger loss include:

Hand fractures caused by violence can vary significantly in severity and complexity. Some victims suffer clean amputations that result in immediate loss, while others may endure extensive crush injuries, deep lacerations, or nerve damage that render the digit permanently non-functional. These injuries can lead to chronic pain, long-term physical disability, and visible disfigurement, affecting both function and appearance. Common violent incidents leading to a fractured hand include:

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  • Blunt force attacks: Being struck with fists, bats, bottles, metal bars, or heavy objects can easily break bones in the hand. These attacks frequently result in crush injuries or multiple fractures.
  • Personal robbery and street muggings: Victims often sustain fractures when falling to the ground or defending themselves against an attacker’s blows.
  • Domestic violence: Ongoing abuse frequently leads to defensive wounds, particularly to the hands and arms. Attempting to block strikes can result in fractured knuckles, fingers, or even entire hand bones.
  • Gang-related retaliation or targeted attacks: In many gang or territorial disputes, individuals may be attacked in ways that intentionally damage limbs and extremities—fracturing the hand to disable or intimidate.
  • Weapons-based assaults: Incidents involving knives, machetes, or improvised weapons often cause compound injuries to the hand, including fractures, lacerations, and deep tissue damage.

Depending on the severity of the trauma, the injury may involve:

  • Simple fractures (clean breaks)
  • Comminuted fractures (bone shattered in multiple places)
  • Open fractures (bone breaks through the skin)
  • Joint fractures or dislocations

Recovery varies depending on the injury type and may require surgical intervention, prolonged immobilisation, and intensive rehabilitation. In more severe cases, complications like nerve damage, reduced grip strength, chronic stiffness, or early-onset arthritis can lead to permanent impairment.

These factors are not only critical for treatment and recovery but also play a major role in determining the amount of compensation you may be entitled to under the CICA scheme.

Eligibility Criteria to Make a CICA Claim for Fractured Hand

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To claim compensation for a fractured hand, your case must meet CICA’s strict eligibility criteria. These ensure that the claim relates to a qualifying violent crime and that the applicant has acted responsibly. To be eligible, you must:

  • Be a victim of a violent crime in England, Scotland, or Wales. This includes physical assault, domestic abuse, or gang violence that directly caused your injury.
  • Report the incident to the police without unreasonable delay. CICA expects this to be within 48 hours unless exceptional circumstances apply.
  • Fully cooperate with the police investigation. Even if no arrest is made, your claim is still valid if you actively assisted authorities.
  • Submit your application to CICA within two years from the date of the incident. Delays may be accepted in rare cases involving trauma or vulnerable applicants.
  • Have a qualifying injury under the CICA tariff. Fractured hand injuries are included when they meet the required medical threshold.
  • Not have caused or contributed to the incident. CICA may reduce or refuse your claim if you were engaged in criminal activity or provoked the assault.
  • Not have unspent serious criminal convictions. These may disqualify you or lower the amount awarded.

CICA does not require the offender to be caught or convicted—as long as the police can confirm that a violent crime occurred and your injury is linked, you may be compensated.

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How Much Compensation You Can Receive for Fractured Hand?

Our cica claim calculator in the main menu will help you with estimating the potential compensation that may be paid in respect to your claim. However, be aware that figures do vary considerably depending upon the nature (severity) of the injury and the impact on your daily life, period of suffering and whether any mental harm has been caused.

CICA uses a structured tariff system to determine compensation amounts for various injuries, including fractured hands. The amount you receive depends on factors such as the extent of the fracture, the number of hands affected, your recovery outcome, and whether the injury has caused lasting disability or functional impairment. Current CICA tariff values for fractured hand injuries include:

  • Fracture of one hand with continuing significant disability (A5): £3,500 – This applies when the hand does not fully heal and there is ongoing impairment to mobility, grip, or dexterity.
  • Fractures to both hands with substantial recovery (A3): £1,800 – When both hands are injured but you make a substantial, though not necessarily complete, recovery.
  • Fractures to both hands with continuing significant disability (A7): £6,200 – Applicable when function in both hands remains significantly reduced, impacting daily activities and work.

Additional tariff values may apply for more severe hand-related injuries:

  • Loss of or total loss of function in one non-dominant hand (A14): £33,000
  • Loss of or total loss of function in one dominant hand (A16): £55,000
  • Loss of or total loss of function where no remaining hand or arm has useful function (A17): £82,000
  • Loss of both hands (A18): £110,000

For grip-specific impairments:

  • Permanently and seriously impaired grip – one hand (A7): £6,200
  • Permanently and seriously impaired grip – both hands (A10): £16,500

Compensation amounts may increase based on whether the dominant hand was affected, whether the injury led to surgical intervention or long-term therapy, and how the impairment affects your occupation or lifestyle. Providing accurate medical records and functional assessments will help ensure your award reflects the real-world impact of the injury.

Additional Compensation You May Be Entitled To

CICA compensation isn’t limited to the physical injury. If your fractured hand has impacted your mental health, employment, or lifestyle, you may qualify for additional financial support.

You may also be entitled to additional forms of compensation that reflect the full scope of how your injury has impacted your life beyond the physical trauma:

  • Psychological injury compensation: If the incident has led to emotional distress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or adjustment disorders, you may be awarded extra compensation. A formal diagnosis from a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist is required for CICA to assess this part of your claim.
  • Loss of earnings: If your injury has kept you out of work for 28 weeks or more, and you can demonstrate that your absence is due to the fracture and recovery, CICA may compensate you for lost income. Documentation such as payslips, tax records, and employer letters will help support this part of your application.
  • Special expenses: CICA also allows claims for necessary costs incurred due to your injury. These include things like mobility aids (splints, grips, ergonomic tools), travel costs to attend medical appointments, prescription fees, professional care support, or home adaptations that improve daily function and safety. To be accepted, these expenses must be directly related to the injury and supported by receipts, invoices, or medical recommendations.

These additional forms of compensation can substantially increase your overall award and help address the broader financial and psychological toll a fractured hand can take on your life.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Fractured Hand

Am I eligible to apply for CICA compensation if I fractured my hand during a violent incident in the UK?

Yes, you are potentially eligible. If you suffered a fractured hand due to a violent crime in England, Scotland, or Wales, you may be entitled to claim compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). This applies to crimes such as physical assaults, violent robberies, domestic abuse, or any situation where your injury was directly caused by someone else’s intentional use of force. To be eligible, you must have reported the incident to the police promptly and cooperated fully with the investigation. The injury must be serious enough to meet CICA’s minimum criteria, and the application must be submitted within the statutory time limits (usually within two years from the incident, unless exceptional circumstances apply).

What are the possible compensation amounts for a fractured hand, and how are they determined by CICA?

CICA uses a fixed tariff system that determines compensation amounts based on the nature, severity, and long-term impact of the injury. The level of award depends on whether the fracture affected one or both hands, the dominance of the affected hand, the extent of recovery, and any resulting loss of function. Below are the current tariffs:

  • Fractured one hand with continuing significant disability: £3,500
  • Fractured both hands with substantial recovery: £1,800
  • Fractured both hands with continuing significant disability: £6,200

For more serious, long-term or permanent injuries:

  • Loss of function or amputation of non-dominant hand: £33,000
  • Loss of function or amputation of dominant hand: £55,000
  • Loss of one hand where no functional use remains in the other arm/hand: £82,000
  • Loss of both hands: £110,000

For permanent grip impairment:

  • One hand: £6,200
  • Both hands: £16,500

These amounts are based on how well the injury has healed and whether there are permanent limitations.

How does CICA define a fractured hand with 'continuing significant disability'?

CICA considers an injury to be significantly disabling when the effects last well beyond the typical recovery time and materially affect your daily life. This could include:

  • Chronic pain that limits movement or causes ongoing discomfort
  • Long-term stiffness or reduced flexibility
  • Weakness in the hand or loss of grip strength
  • Inability to perform essential tasks at work or at home (e.g., lifting, writing, typing)
  • Requirement for ongoing care, physiotherapy, or use of assistive devices

To qualify under this category, your condition must be documented in your medical records and show a long-term or permanent impact on your functional ability.

What is meant by a 'substantial recovery' from a fractured hand in CICA terms?

A substantial recovery means that although you fractured your hand, the injury healed within a typical timeframe (usually around 28 weeks), and you were able to return to most, if not all, of your previous activities without major restrictions. Some residual symptoms like occasional pain or minor stiffness may remain, but they do not interfere significantly with your ability to work, perform self-care, or maintain your normal lifestyle. Medical evidence should clearly show that the healing process was successful and the hand has returned to near-normal functionality.

How should I prepare my medical evidence to support a fractured hand CICA claim?

Strong, comprehensive medical documentation is essential to support your CICA application. The following types of evidence are especially helpful:

  • Hospital admission and discharge summaries
  • Emergency department reports from the day of injury
  • Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs that show the location and severity of the fracture
  • GP records and consultant letters documenting diagnosis, treatment, and recovery progress
  • Surgery reports if you underwent an operation on the hand
  • Physiotherapy or occupational therapy notes demonstrating rehabilitation progress and remaining limitations
  • Statements from medical professionals confirming permanent or long-lasting disability, if applicable

Ensure that your documents are dated and clearly show the timeline of the injury, treatment, and recovery.

Does it matter which hand was injured when claiming compensation for a fractured hand?

Yes. If the injury affects your dominant hand—usually the one you write or work with—it can have a more serious impact on your daily life and employability. While basic fracture tariffs are the same regardless of hand dominance, more severe injuries involving total loss of use or amputation lead to higher compensation for dominant hand injuries. For instance:

  • Loss of non-dominant hand: £33,000
  • Loss of dominant hand: £55,000

Even if your injury was not permanent, it is still important to specify which hand was affected, as this helps CICA understand the full extent of the impact.

How does CICA evaluate cases involving fractures in both hands?

Fracturing both hands simultaneously is considered more serious due to the higher functional impairment. If both hands were injured and you experienced a substantial recovery, you may receive £1,800. However, if you continue to have reduced mobility, grip strength, or daily function in both hands, the award may be as high as £6,200. The greater the long-term disability and the more it affects your independence, the higher your compensation is likely to be. Comprehensive medical documentation covering both hands is crucial.

Can I still receive compensation if my fractured hand was treated without surgery?

Yes. CICA does not base awards on whether surgery was performed. Instead, they focus on the outcome of the injury—specifically how much it affected your life and whether there was a full or partial recovery. Even if your treatment only involved immobilisation (like a cast or splint), you may still be eligible for significant compensation if your recovery was prolonged or incomplete. Surgery can be helpful evidence in showing severity, but it’s not essential.

What if the hand fracture caused permanent weakness or impaired grip?

If your ability to grip or hold objects is permanently affected—even if your hand is not entirely non-functional—you may be eligible for an additional award under the category of impaired grip. The tariffs are:

  • One hand: £6,200
  • Both hands: £16,500

This can apply in cases involving nerve damage, tendon injury, or joint dysfunction that limits your ability to use the hand effectively in everyday life. A physiotherapy or occupational therapy report demonstrating functional limitations is highly recommended.

Can I include psychological effects caused by the hand injury or the crime itself in my claim?

Yes, you can submit a claim for psychological injury alongside your physical injury. If you have developed anxiety, depression, PTSD, or any other recognised mental health condition as a result of the incident or the trauma of your injury, you may be eligible for additional compensation. To qualify, you must provide:

  • A formal diagnosis from a registered psychiatrist or clinical psychologist
  • Treatment records (e.g., counselling, therapy, medication)
  • Evidence that the psychological injury is directly related to the incident or its aftermath
  • Psychological injury is considered a separate injury category and may increase your total award.

Can I claim compensation if I had a pre-existing hand injury that was made worse by the crime?

Yes. CICA may still award compensation if a violent incident worsened an existing hand condition. However, they will only compensate for the additional harm or aggravation caused by the crime. To support your claim:

  • Submit pre-incident medical records showing your baseline condition
  • Provide updated medical evaluations that compare your functionality before and after the crime
  • Include statements from your GP or consultant detailing the exacerbation of symptoms
  • The award may be adjusted to reflect the difference between your previous and current level of function.

Am I entitled to loss of earnings compensation if I couldn’t work due to my fractured hand?

Yes, if you meet the following criteria:

  • You were working or self-employed at the time of the incident
  • You have been unable to work for more than 28 consecutive weeks as a direct result of the injury
  • You can provide medical confirmation of your incapacity to work

You’ll also need to provide:

  • Payslips, tax returns, or other income documentation
  • Letters from your employer or occupational health professional

CICA pays loss of earnings at a fixed statutory rate unless there are exceptional circumstances. This is separate from your physical injury award.

Can I be reimbursed for support or adaptive equipment I needed during my recovery?

Yes. CICA allows claims for “special expenses” which cover reasonable and necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred as a direct result of your injury. These expenses must not be covered by the NHS or other public services and may include:

  • Adaptive utensils or writing aids
  • Wrist supports or ergonomic tools
  • Paid care or home help
  • Transport costs if you were unable to use public transport due to your injury
  • You must keep receipts and provide written recommendations from medical professionals for any equipment or services.

Do I need a criminal conviction to qualify for compensation through CICA?

No, a criminal conviction is not necessary. CICA awards compensation based on the balance of probabilities—that is, they must be satisfied that it is more likely than not that a crime of violence occurred. What is required:

  • Prompt reporting of the crime to the police
  • Full cooperation with the police investigation
  • Sufficient evidence (medical, police, or witness) to support your claim
  • The offender does not need to be identified, arrested, or prosecuted for your claim to succeed.

Can I still apply for compensation if the offender was never caught or charged?

Yes. Many successful CICA claims are made without a known or convicted offender. As long as you:

  • Reported the incident to police quickly
  • Gave a statement or account
  • Provided medical or supporting evidence

Then your claim will still be considered. CICA assesses the circumstances and evidence independently of any criminal prosecution.

What is the time limit for making a CICA claim for a fractured hand injury?

In most cases, you must submit your CICA application within two years of the date of the incident. This deadline is strictly enforced unless there are exceptional circumstances. For example, if you were a minor when the crime occurred, the time limit extends until your 20th birthday. Delays due to psychological trauma, hospitalisation, or lack of awareness about the scheme may be considered valid grounds for late submission. You’ll need to provide a strong explanation along with evidence justifying the delay. To avoid complications, apply as soon as possible after reporting the crime to the police.

Can I claim CICA compensation if I fractured my hand while protecting someone else during a violent incident?

Yes. The CICA scheme recognises the actions of people injured while intervening to protect others from harm or prevent a crime. As long as your actions were lawful and you didn’t provoke the situation, you remain eligible. These types of cases may be viewed favourably, especially if there are supporting witness statements or a commendation from police or medical personnel. You’ll need to show that the injury directly resulted from your efforts to assist or defend someone in danger.

What should I do if my hand condition worsens after submitting my CICA application?

If your condition deteriorates after submitting your application but before CICA makes a decision, submit updated medical evidence as soon as possible. This can include recent X-rays, follow-up consultations, or physiotherapy reports showing the progression of symptoms. If CICA has already issued a decision, you may still request a review within 56 days or file a new claim if your injury has developed into a distinctly new condition. Timely updates strengthen your case and ensure you receive the correct level of compensation.

Can I claim if the hand injury triggered or worsened a mental health condition?

Yes. If the hand injury caused or aggravated conditions like PTSD, anxiety, or depression, you may qualify for an additional award for psychological injury. This can significantly increase your total compensation. You’ll need:

  • A formal diagnosis from a registered psychologist or psychiatrist
  • Evidence connecting the condition to the violent incident
  • Proof of treatment, such as therapy or medication records

If you had a pre-existing mental health condition that worsened due to the injury, you’ll need to show a clear difference in symptoms before and after the event.

Will I be eligible for compensation if I only received NHS treatment for my injury?

Yes. You do not need to pay for private treatment to qualify for a CICA award. NHS treatment is fully accepted. However, if you’re claiming for special expenses, they must be costs you personally incurred that weren’t covered by public healthcare. This includes things like transport costs to appointments, adaptive aids not provided by the NHS, and support services paid for out of pocket. Keep receipts and, where possible, obtain letters from professionals confirming the necessity of each item or service.

What are the rules for claiming if I was a child when the hand injury occurred?

If you were under 18 when the crime happened, you have until your 20th birthday to apply. A parent or legal guardian can also apply on your behalf at the time of the incident. If the injury was due to abuse or domestic violence, CICA may allow a late claim depending on your personal circumstances and emotional readiness to report the crime. Delays must be explained and supported by evidence such as psychological reports or social service notes.

Can I claim CICA compensation if my fractured hand prevents me from caring for dependents?

Yes. If the injury makes it difficult for you to care for your children or other dependents—such as helping them dress, cook meals, or provide physical support—this limitation may strengthen your claim, particularly under special expenses or psychological injury categories. Document your caregiving responsibilities before and after the injury and include statements from family members or healthcare providers showing how your abilities have changed.

Is it necessary to use a solicitor when applying for CICA compensation for a hand injury?

No. Many applicants complete the CICA process themselves. However, a solicitor or a victims’ advocacy organisation may help if your case is complex, involves multiple injuries, or if you’re unsure how to compile strong evidence. They can assist with reviewing your application, gathering documentation, and appealing any under-assessed claims. Be aware that legal representatives may charge a fee or take a percentage of your award unless you use free support services like Victim Support.

Will receiving CICA compensation affect my entitlement to benefits?

Possibly. Compensation awards from CICA can affect means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Income Support. To protect your benefits, you may want to set up a Personal Injury Trust before receiving your payment. This legally separates your compensation from your income and savings for benefits assessment purposes. It’s advisable to speak with a financial advisor or legal specialist to ensure compliance and avoid issues with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

What can I do to maximise my chances of a successful CICA claim for a fractured hand?

To strengthen your application:

  • Report the crime to the police promptly and request a crime reference number
  • Keep detailed and consistent medical records throughout your recovery
  • Provide clear evidence of the injury’s impact on work, mobility, caregiving duties, and mental health
  • Gather receipts and recommendations for any special expenses claimed
  • Submit updated evidence if your condition worsens during the application process
  • Ensure all information provided is accurate, complete, and aligned across your documents
  • Well-prepared, evidence-backed applications are more likely to succeed and result in fairer compensation.
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Helping Victims of Violent Crimes To Recover Compensation From CICA

Understanding Fractured Hand Injury and Different Types of Fractured Hand Injuries

Fractured hand injuries vary greatly depending on the force of the trauma, the location of the break, and how well the injury heals. These factors influence the extent of pain, treatment requirements, and the duration of recovery. For victims of violent crime, understanding the type of fracture sustained can be critical to securing the correct compensation through the CICA scheme.

Common types of fractured hand injuries recognised in CICA claims include:

  • Simple fractures: These are clean breaks that may heal relatively well with immobilisation. However, even simple fractures can lead to lingering pain, stiffness, and loss of grip strength, especially if the dominant hand is involved.
  • Comminuted fractures: This injury occurs when the bone breaks into several pieces, often from high-impact trauma such as being hit with a blunt object. Surgery is usually required, and recovery can be prolonged with lasting mobility issues.
  • Compound (open) fractures: These injuries involve the bone breaking through the skin, creating a higher risk of infection and requiring more intensive treatment. Long-term scarring and tissue damage are common, and full function may never return.
  • Crush injuries: Frequently seen in violent assaults, these involve multiple bones being compressed or shattered. They often cause severe nerve damage, ongoing weakness, and long-term disability in the affected hand.
  • Fractures near or within joints: These are among the most disabling hand injuries as they can lead to chronic stiffness, reduced range of motion, or arthritis. Joint involvement typically results in functional limitations that affect everyday tasks.

CICA will assess these factors closely when reviewing your claim, especially whether the dominant hand was injured, whether surgical treatment or rehabilitation was needed, and whether permanent disability is likely. The more severe and functionally limiting the fracture, the higher the potential compensation award.

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Strengthening Your CICA Claim: Medical and Legal Evidence

To maximise the chances of a successful CICA claim for a fractured hand, you must submit clear, comprehensive evidence that proves your injury was a result of a qualifying violent crime and that it has significantly affected your day-to-day life. The strength of your claim will largely depend on how well this documentation shows the direct link between the incident and the physical and functional limitations caused by the injury.

  • Police report: This is a vital piece of documentation. Ensure your report includes the crime reference number, the date of the incident, a clear description of what happened, and confirmation from law enforcement that the event is classified as a violent crime. Any lack of cooperation or reporting delays may need a valid explanation.
  • Medical records: These should cover your initial treatment (e.g., emergency care, A&E visits), X-rays or imaging that confirm the fracture, surgery notes (if applicable), and follow-up consultations. The more detailed and specific these records are, the easier it is for CICA to understand the severity of your injury.
  • Physiotherapy and rehabilitation reports: If you required ongoing therapy, these documents can support your claim by highlighting long-term complications such as stiffness, reduced range of motion, chronic pain, or loss of grip strength. Occupational therapy notes are also helpful, especially if they address how your hand function has been impacted in work or home life.
  • Personal impact statement: Your narrative should describe how the injury has disrupted your normal routine—include examples such as being unable to work, drive, cook, care for dependents, or pursue hobbies. Be honest and specific. Emotional effects such as frustration, anxiety, or feelings of dependency are also relevant.

Providing detailed and consistent documentation that clearly connects the violent crime to your fractured hand and its aftermath greatly increases your chances of receiving the maximum compensation available through the CICA scheme.

Special Expenses and Financial Losses from a Fractured Hand

Fractured hand injuries can have a significant financial impact, particularly if the injury disrupts your ability to work, care for yourself, or maintain your usual routine. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) allows claimants to recover not just for the physical injury itself, but also for a range of out-of-pocket costs directly related to the aftermath of the incident. These additional costs fall under what is known as “special expenses.”

Special expenses are awarded to help cover necessary and reasonable costs incurred due to your injury. These must be expenses that are not covered elsewhere (such as by the NHS or private insurance) and must be supported by receipts, invoices, or recommendations from medical professionals.

Eligible special expenses may include:

  • Assistive tools and ergonomic aids: Equipment like one-handed kitchen tools, ergonomic pens, adaptive cutlery, or specially designed grips and braces that assist with reduced hand function.
  • Workplace modifications: Changes to your workstation or the provision of specialised tools or support that enable you to return to your job or maintain productivity if your hand function is impaired.
  • Medical equipment and private treatment: If NHS treatment is delayed or unavailable, you can claim for private physiotherapy sessions, occupational therapy, medical consultations, or custom splints and braces needed to aid recovery.
  • Domestic assistance and paid support: If the injury prevents you from performing household duties or caregiving tasks, CICA may cover the cost of hiring help for cleaning, cooking, transport, or childcare.
  • Loss of income: If your injury forced you to miss work for more than 28 weeks, you can claim compensation for lost earnings. This requires documentation such as payslips, P60s, tax returns, or letters from employers verifying your employment status and income.

These special expenses are intended to ease the burden of injury-related costs and help victims maintain independence, recover effectively, and continue to live as normally as possible following a traumatic incident.

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Psychological Trauma After a Hand Fracture

While a fractured hand is a physical injury, the emotional toll that follows can be equally significant. For many victims of violent crime, the trauma of the incident—combined with the pain, disruption, and long recovery process—can lead to lasting psychological effects that interfere with daily life. Victims often experience:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Recurring flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety, particularly if the incident was especially violent or occurred in a previously safe environment.
  • Depression and anxiety: Feelings of sadness, helplessness, fear, and social withdrawal can develop when a victim’s independence is compromised, or when they are unable to return to work or normal routines.
  • Adjustment disorders: Difficulty adapting to life with a temporary or permanent disability, especially when it affects employment, relationships, or self-image.
  • Body image concerns: Visible scars or deformities can affect a person’s self-confidence and willingness to engage in social or public activities.

CICA recognises these psychological impacts and allows additional compensation for mental health conditions when:

  • A formal diagnosis is made by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist
  • The condition is clearly linked to the violent crime
  • The symptoms are moderate to severe and persist over time

Compensation for psychological injuries can range from £1,000 to £27,000 depending on the severity, diagnosis, and duration of treatment. To strengthen this part of your claim, provide psychiatric evaluations, therapy notes, and personal impact statements describing how your mental health has been affected.

Long-Term Medical and Rehabilitation Needs

In many cases, fractured hand injuries require prolonged medical attention long after the bone has initially healed. The recovery process often extends into rehabilitation, pain management, and emotional recovery. These long-term needs are not only essential for a victim’s well-being but are also critical to include in your CICA claim to justify additional compensation under special expenses.

  • Extended physiotherapy and rehabilitation: To regain hand strength, fine motor skills, and flexibility, victims often require several months of physiotherapy. In more severe cases, this therapy continues indefinitely and plays a major role in daily independence and employment.
  • Ongoing orthopaedic monitoring: Regular check-ups with hand or orthopaedic specialists help track progress, identify complications like misalignment or non-union, and monitor the development of conditions such as post-traumatic arthritis.
  • Comprehensive pain management plans: Chronic nerve pain or inflammation is common after fractures, especially those involving joints or crush injuries. Treatment may involve prescription medications, steroid injections, or specialised pain clinics.
  • Occupational therapy and vocational support: Therapy designed to help victims relearn skills needed for work, driving, or household activities. For those in manual professions, vocational retraining or alternative work support may be recommended.
  • Mental health and emotional support: A long-term injury can trigger depression, anxiety, or trauma-related stress. Ongoing access to psychotherapy or support groups may be needed to help victims adjust and maintain mental resilience.

Ask your treating medical professionals to provide written confirmation of these needs—such as treatment plans, therapist reports, and referral letters. This documentation can significantly strengthen your claim by showing CICA the lasting impact your injury has had on your physical, psychological, and occupational wellbeing.

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Additional Losses You Can Claim

Loss of Earnings – If your injury caused you to be unable to work for more than 28 weeks, you may be eligible for compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) for lost earnings. To qualify, you must be able to demonstrate that you had a consistent and regular income before the injury. This could include proof of full-time employment, self-employment, or any other verifiable source of income. CICA will consider your pre-injury income levels to calculate the compensation. This can be especially crucial if the injury significantly impacted your financial stability and your ability to support yourself or your family.

Psychological Trauma – If your injury led to psychological trauma such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety, you may be entitled to additional compensation. These mental health conditions can have a long-term impact on your well-being, and CICA recognises the importance of supporting victims of crime with emotional and psychological support. To qualify for compensation for psychological trauma, you will need to provide medical evidence of the diagnosis from a qualified mental health professional. The severity of your condition and the impact on your daily life will be taken into account when determining the amount of compensation.

Special Expenses – If your injury results in additional needs, such as mobility aids or home adaptations, CICA may compensate you for these “special expenses.” However, there is an important criterion: you must have been unable to work for at least 28 weeks as a result of your injury. This compensation is meant to help cover the costs of any special equipment or alterations to your living space that are necessary for you to maintain a reasonable quality of life after the injury. This can include items like wheelchairs, prosthetics, home modifications (such as ramps or stairlifts), or any other equipment that helps you with mobility or daily activities. The claim must be substantiated by proof of these expenses and how they relate to your injury.

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Increasing the Chances of a Successful CICA Claim

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To improve your chances of receiving the highest possible CICA compensation, follow these essential steps:

  • Report the Crime Immediately – Delays in reporting the crime can weaken your claim, so notify the police as soon as possible. If there is a valid reason for a delay, such as being medically incapacitated or facing threats from the perpetrator, you must provide evidence to support your explanation.
  • Provide Strong Medical Evidence – Ensure all medical reports, X-rays, and surgical records clearly detail your injury, the severity of the fracture, and its long-term effects. A medical professional’s prognosis regarding mobility limitations, future treatments, and rehabilitation needs can strengthen your claim.
  • Keep Financial Records and Document Expenses – If you have lost earnings or incurred medical expenses due to your injury, retain all relevant documentation. You may be able to claim special expenses for:
    • Loss of income due to inability to work;
    • Mobility aids such as crutches or wheelchairs;
    • Home modifications (e.g., stairlifts or handrails);
    • Ongoing physiotherapy or rehabilitation costs;
    • Travel costs for medical appointments;
    • Costs of personal care if you need assistance with daily activities.
  • Be Consistent with Your Statements – Ensure your statements to the police, medical professionals, and CICA are aligned. Discrepancies in accounts of how the injury occurred or differences in timelines may raise questions that could delay or reduce your compensation.
  • Seek Legal Assistance If Necessary – If your case is complex, involves long-term disability, or was initially rejected, consulting a solicitor who specialises in CICA claims may help strengthen your application. Legal professionals can assist in gathering additional evidence, drafting appeals, and negotiating a fair settlement.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Basic Eligibility Requirements:

You need to meet some basic requirements before you can claim compensation from CICA

  • Time Limit: There is a two-year time limit for making a CICA claim for compensation under the scheme, although exceptions may be made in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent or where the victim was a child at the time of the crime. Exceptions may be made for historic sexual abuse cases else you should have a good reason for delay in making a claim.
  • Connection Between Injury & Crime: The injuries you are claiming for must have been sustained as a direct result of a crime of violence and you are a blameless victim.
  • Reporting the Crime: The crime must have been reported to the police as soon as is reasonably practicable and you do not drop the charges. The victim must have cooperated with the police investigation and prosecution. CICA does not consider whether an assailant is prosecuted or not.
  • Residency: To be eligible for compensation under the CICA scheme, the incident must have happened in England, Scotland or Wales and victim must have been resident in the UK at the time of the crime.
  • Behaviour of The Victim: The victim’s behaviour must not have contributed to the injury. In certain circumstances, compensation may still be payable even if the victim’s behaviour contributed to the injury, but this will be assessed by CICA on a case-by-case basis.
  • Criminal Convictions: In some cases, compensation may be reduced or refused if the victim has an unspent criminal record.
  • Injuries Before 1979 (the “same roof” rule): Until 2019, victims injured before 1 October 1979 by an attacker they lived with could not claim. That restriction was abolished in June 2019, so if you were previously refused compensation for this reason you may now be able to apply.

If you are considering making a compensation claim for your injuries, it’s always best to consult with a solicitor or the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) to check your eligibility to make a claim. You can call us or request a free callback for a free initial consultation. We take all CICA cases on a No Win, No Fee basis. This means you don’t need to pay us anything if we can’t secure any compensation.

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What is Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme in the UK is a government-run program that provides financial compensation to individuals who have been physically or mentally injured as a result of violent crime. The compensation is paid to those who have suffered injury and can demonstrate that the injury was sustained as a direct result of a crime of violence.

To be eligible for compensation, the crime must have been reported to the police and the victim must have cooperated with the police investigation and prosecution. The amount of compensation awarded is based on a tariff system and can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, depending on the severity of the injury and other factors.

The purpose of this scheme is to provide financial support to victims of violent crime who have been physically or mentally injured as a result of the crime. The compensation is intended to help cover the cost of medical expenses (which are not covered by NHS or recoverable from any other source), lost income, and other expenses related to the injury.

What Payments Are Available From The Scheme?

CICA will consider claims for the following injuries, medical conditions and special expenses:

  • mental or physical injury following a crime of violence;
  • sexual or physical abuse;
  • loss of earnings – where you have no or limited capacity to work as the direct result of a criminal injury;
  • special expenses payments – these cover certain costs you may have incurred as a direct result of an incident. You can only ask us to consider special expenses if your injuries mean you have been unable to work or have been incapacitated to a similar extent for more than 28 weeks;
  • a fatality caused by a crime of violence including bereavement payments, payments for loss of parental services and financial dependency; and funeral payments.

To qualify for an award, an injury must be described in the tariff of injuries at Annex E of the CICA Scheme. Not all claims for compensation will be successful; you must be eligible under the rules of the Scheme.

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What Information Do I Need To Make A Criminal Injuries Compensation Claim?

To make a claim for compensation claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), you will need to provide certain information and documentation to support your criminal injury claim. Some of the information and documentation as minimum you will need include:

Details of The Crime & Injuries: You will need to provide a detailed account of the crime that resulted in your injury, including the date, time, location of the incident and injury details.

Crime Reference Number: You will need to provide the crime reference number issued by the police.

Police Station, Police Officer Name & Collar Number: You will need to provide the name of the police station, police officer name and collar number who dealt with the crime.

GP & Hospital Details and Medical records: You will need to provide GP & hospital details, consent to ask your medical records to see the nature and extent of your injuries, including any diagnoses and treatment received and submit it to CICA.

Other Supporting Evidence: You may also need to provide additional supporting evidence, such as witness statements or photographs, specialist medical reports, etc. to support your claim.

How is The Compensation Amount Determined?

The compensation amount is determined based on a tariff system that takes into account the specific nature and impact of the injury. We can assist with negotiating the compensation amount and ensuring that you receive the maximum amount of compensation available under the scheme. We can also check your eligibility to make a CICA claim and also advise you the approximate award amount you might receive from CICA.

Can I File a CICA Claim & Receive Compensation if The Offender is Not Convicted?

Yes, you can still file a CICA claim and compensation may still be payable even if the offender is not convicted. Remember you have two years to make a compensation claim under the CICA scheme, although exceptions may be made in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent or where the victim was a child at the time of the crime. Exceptions may be made for historic sexual abuse cases else you should have a good reason for delay in making a claim.

Can I Receive Compensation if I Was Injured Outside the UK?

To be eligible for compensation through the CICA, the crime must have occurred in England, Scotland, or Wales. If you were injured outside of the UK, you may still be eligible for compensation through other schemes or compensation programs but not from CICA.

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Which Injuries Can Not Be Claimed From CICA?

CICA has specific eligibility criteria for claims, and certain types of injuries or circumstances may not be eligible for compensation. Here are some common examples of injuries or circumstances that may not be eligible for compensation through the CICA:

Self-inflicted Injuries: Compensation cannot be awarded for injuries that were self-inflicted or caused by the victim’s own actions.

Criminal Activity: Compensation cannot be awarded for injuries sustained as a result of criminal activity in which the victim was participating, such as a fight or brawl.

Minor Injuries: Minor physical injuries which can be healed itself such as scratches, bruises, black eye, soft tissue injuries, broken nose, broken ribs, bruising or a black eye are not claimable. You can claim for scarring from the CICA scheme.

Animal Attack / Dog Bite:  You can’t claim for any animal attack or dog bites unless the animal was used as a weapon and ordered to attack purely to cause the harm or injuries.

Theft or Burglary: Damaged or lost/stolen properties such as house, car, phone, or any other device cannot be claimed from CICA scheme. You can claim for physical or mental injuries sustained as a result of theft, burglary and attack.

PTSD Not Diagnosed by Psychologist or Psychiatrist: PTSD, Anxiety and depression needs to be diagnosed by a clinical Psychologist or Psychiatrist in order to make a claim. CICA won’t accept any diagnosis by GP or  any other medical professional.

When CICA Can Reject Your Claim?

The most common reasons for a Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) claim to be rejected are:

Time Limit: Claims must be made within two years of the date of the incident or the date when it is reported to the police. Where claimant is a minor they have until their 20th birthday to make a CICA claim. Claims made outside this time limit may be rejected, unless you have exceptional circumstances for the delay in submitting your claim.

Failure to Cooperate With the Police: Compensation claim may be rejected if the victim failed to provide statement, cooperate with the police during the investigation or dropped charges.

Unspent Conviction: If the claimant has an unspent conviction at the time of applying or before an award offer, their claim may be reduced or rejected. If you are unsure that your drink and drive or any other conviction is spent or unspent then give us a call.

Minor Injuries: If the injuries you sustained during the incident are minor and not included within the ‘CICA Scheme Tariff” then your claim may be rejected by CICA.

Psychological Injury Without Diagnosis: CICA may reject any claim compensation for mental injuries that are not diagnosed by a clinical Psychologist or Psychiatrist.

Lack of Supporting Evidence: If the requested medical evidence or other supporting evidence are not provided or not enough to demonstrate that you sustain an injury as a direct result of violent crime, then your claim may be rejected.

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Calculate Your Claim Amount

You can use our simple CICA claim calculator to calculate the potential award amount.

How We Can Help With CICA Claim?

  • Providing Advice on Eligibility: We can help determine if you are eligible for compensation through the CICA scheme, based on the specific circumstances of your case and the other requirements of the scheme. We can help you recover compensation from £1,000 to £500,000.
  • Gathering & Presenting Evidence: We can help gather and present evidence to support your claim, including medical records, injury form, GP report and other forms & relevant documentation. We will fight to recover the compensation that you deserve & deal with matters on your behalf.
  • Completing the Application Form: We will complete the application form for CICA compensation on your behalf to ensure that it is completed correctly and submitted in a timely manner. We will handle everything on priority basis and keep it confidential.
  • Negotiating the Compensation Amount: We will negotiate with the CICA on your behalf to ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation available under the scheme. We will also advise you that the compensation award offered is appropriate or not.
  • No Win, No Fee: We will proceed with you claim on a No Win, No Fee basis. You don’t need to pay us anything if we can’t secure any compensation for you from CICA.

It’s important to note that while a solicitor is not required to make a claim for compensation through the CICA, many victims find it helpful to have legal representation to ensure that their rights are protected and that they receive the maximum amount of compensation available.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), is an executive agency of the UK government responsible for administering the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (CICS). The CICS is a government-funded program that provides compensation to victims of violent crime who have been physically or psychologically injured as a result of the crime.

The CICA considers applications from individuals who have been injured in England, Scotland, or Wales and who meet the eligibility criteria for the scheme. These criteria include being a resident of the UK, a national of the European Economic Area (EEA), or having leave to remain in the UK. Additionally, the crime must have been reported to the police within a reasonable time frame, and the victim must have cooperated with the police in any investigation and prosecution of the crime.

The amount of compensation awarded by the CICA depends on the nature and severity of the injury, and may also take into account loss of earnings and other expenses incurred as a result of the injury. The CICA may also consider the behaviour of the victim in determining the amount of compensation to be awarded.

The rules of the Scheme and the value of the payments awarded are set by Parliament and are calculated by reference to a tariff of injuries. Although the size of the award varies to reflect the seriousness of the injury, we know that it will never fully compensate you for what you have suffered or lost – it is just society’s way of recognising that you have been a victim.

The Scheme applies to all applications received on or after 27 November 2012. This guide should be read in conjunction with the Scheme, which remains the authoritative document.

Basic eligibility criteria for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (CICS):

  1. Residency: To be eligible for compensation from the CICA, you must be a resident of the UK, a national of the European Economic Area (EEA), or have leave to remain in the UK. The incident itself must have happened in England, Scotland or Wales. If you were injured by a violent crime abroad, CICA cannot compensate you, but you may be able to claim under the Victims of Terrorism Abroad Scheme or the compensation scheme of the country where it happened.
  2. Report to the Police: The crime must have been reported to the police within a reasonable time frame. The CICA may also require evidence that you have cooperated with the police in any investigation and prosecution of the crime.
  3. Injury: You must have suffered an injury as a result of a crime of violence that took place in England, Scotland, or Wales. The injury must be physically or psychologically traumatic, and you must provide medical evidence of the injury.
  4. Time Limit: There is a time limit for making an application to the CICA, which is generally two years from the date of the crime. However, in certain circumstances, the time limit may be extended.
  5. Conduct of the Victim: The CICA may also consider the behaviour of the victim in determining eligibility for compensation. If the victim was engaged in criminal activity at the time of the crime, or if their behaviour contributed to the crime, their application for compensation may be refused.
What is The Eligibility Criteria for CICA Claims?

The CICA have set criteria which enables you to claim under their scheme, which includes:

  • You must have suffered the physical or psychological injury as a result of a violent crime;
  • The incident must have happened in England, Wales or Scotland;
  • The incident must have been reported to the police as soon as practically possible;
  • You must fully cooperate with the police and the CICA;
  • Your injuries must be serious enough to meet the minimum requirements of the CICA scheme.

Time Limit: There is a two-year time limit for making a CICA claim for compensation under the scheme, although exceptions may be made in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent or where the victim was a child at the time of the crime. Exceptions may be made for historic sexual abuse cases else you should have a good reason for delay in making a claim.

Connection Between Injury & Crime: The injuries you are claiming for must have been sustained as a direct result of a crime of violence and you are a blameless victim.

Reporting the Crime: The crime must have been reported to the police as soon as is reasonably practicable and you do not drop the charges. The victim must have cooperated with the police investigation and prosecution. CICA does not consider whether an assailant is prosecuted or not.

Residency: To be eligible for compensation under the CICA scheme, the incident must have happened in England, Scotland or Wales and victim must have been resident in the UK at the time of the crime.

Behaviour of The Victim: The victim’s behaviour must not have contributed to the injury. In certain circumstances, compensation may still be payable even if the victim’s behaviour contributed to the injury, but this will be assessed by CICA on a case-by-case basis.

Criminal Convictions: In some cases, compensation may be reduced or refused if the victim has an unspent criminal record.

Injuries Before 1979 (the “same roof” rule): Until 2019, victims injured before 1 October 1979 by an attacker they lived with could not claim. That restriction was abolished in June 2019, so if you were previously refused compensation for this reason you may now be able to apply.

If you are considering making a compensation claim for your injuries, it’s always best to consult with a solicitor or the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) to check your eligibility to make a claim. You can call us or request a free callback for a free initial consultation. We take all CICA cases on a No Win, No Fee basis. This means you don’t need to pay us anything if we can’t secure any compensation.

Who Can Apply for CICA Compensation?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) in the UK provides compensation to victims of violent crime who have been physically or psychologically injured. To be eligible for compensation from the CICA, you must have suffered an injury as a result of a crime of violence that took place in England, Scotland, or Wales.

To apply, you must be a resident of the UK, a national of the European Economic Area (EEA), or have leave to remain in the UK. Additionally, the injury must have been reported to the police within a reasonable time frame, and you must cooperate with the police in any investigation and prosecution of the crime. The CICA may also consider the behaviour of the victim in determining eligibility for compensation award.

The people who can apply for compensation under the scheme include:

  • A person who has suffered an injury;
  • A close relative of someone who passed away as a result of their injuries;
  • A witness of a crime or someone who arrived at the scene of the crime immediately afterwards and has suffered a psychological injury;
  • A person who has paid funeral expenses of someone who passed away as a result of their injuries.
Are There Time Limits For Applying CICA Compensation?

If you were an adult at the time of the incident, you should apply within two years of the date of the incident. However, the time limit can be extended if there were exceptional circumstances which prevented you from applying earlier and the evidence to support the application means it can be determined without further extensive enquiries.

If you were a child under 18 years old at the time of the incident, the two-year time limit doesn’t apply. If the incident was reported to the police before the child turned 18, then the two-year limit would run from the date the child turned 18, i.e. they would have to make the claim before their 20th birthday.

The CICA will consider extending time limits where you can prove that you were unable to make the claim earlier, for example, if you had a psychological illness as a result of the incident. So it’s always best to check with the CICA first to see if it’s still possible to bring a claim, even if you’re outside of the applied time limit.

What Information Do You Need to Provide When Applying For CICA Compensation?

When applying for Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) compensation, you will need to provide information about the crime, your injuries, and any other relevant information that supports your claim. Some of the key information you will need to provide includes:

  • Date, time, and location of the crime
  • Description of what happened & your injuries
  • Name of the police station where the crime was reported
  • Crime reference number & investigation officer name
  • GP’s name and address
  • Dentist’s name and address (if you had dental treatment because of your injuries)
  • Details of any previous applications you’ve made to CICA
  • Details of any unspent criminal convictions, if any
  • Proof of identity for you or anyone you’re responsible for, such as a birth or marriage certificate, power of attorney or deed poll
What Payments Are Available From The CICA Scheme?

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme provides financial compensation to victims of violent crime in England, Scotland, and Wales. The types of payments available under the scheme include:

Compensation for Injuries: This includes payments for physical and psychological injuries sustained as a result of the crime, such as broken bones, scarring, sexual abuse, sexual assault, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The amount of compensation awarded will depend on the severity and impact of the injuries.

Loss of Earnings: If you are unable to work as a result of your injuries, the CICA may provide compensation for lost earnings. This can include compensation for past and future lost earnings.

Special Expenses: If you have incurred expenses as a result of the crime, such as medical expenses or travel costs, the CICA may provide compensation to cover these expenses.

Bereavement Payment: If a family member has died as a result of a violent crime, the CICA may provide a bereavement payment to the deceased person’s spouse or parents. Where a claims officer is satisfied that more than one person may be eligible for a bereavement payment in respect of the deceased, the amount of the bereavement payment is £5,500. Otherwise, the amount of the bereavement payment is £11,000. You can additionally claim payments for loss of parental services and financial dependency; and funeral payments.

Funeral Payment: If a family member has died as a result of a violent crime, the CICA may provide a payment to cover the costs of the funeral.

Child’s Payment: A child’s payment may be made to a person who is a qualifying relative if that person was at the time of the death of the deceased under 18 years old and dependent on the deceased for parental services. The period to which a child’s payment will relate begins on the day of the death and ends on the day before the child’s 18th birthday.

Dependency Payment: A dependency payment may be made to a qualifying relative who at the time of the deceased’s death was financially or physically dependent on the deceased. A qualifying relative was physically dependent on the deceased if the deceased was their main carer. The period to which a dependency payment will relate begins on the day of the death.

What Happens if You Have More Than One Injury?

If you have suffered more than one injury as a result of a violent crime, we can include all of your injuries in your Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) claim. The CICA considers all injuries when calculating the amount of compensation you may be eligible to receive.

In general, the CICA will assess the severity and impact of each of your injuries separately, and assign a specific award for each injury. The total amount of compensation you receive will be based on a formula and then sum of the individual awards for each injury.

It’s worth noting that the CICA uses a tariff-based system to determine the amount of compensation awarded for different types of injuries. The tariff sets out a range of compensation amounts for different injuries, based on their severity and impact.

In addition to compensation for physical injuries, the CICA may also provide compensation for certain psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression, that have resulted from the crime.

If you have suffered multiple injuries as a result of a violent crime, it’s important to provide the CICA with as much information as possible about the nature and impact of your injuries. If you have more than one injury then each, on its own, would qualify, you may be entitled to:

  • 100% of the full tariff value of the most serious injury; and
  • 30% of the tariff amount for the injury with an equal or second highest value; plus
  • 15% of the tariff amount for any additional injury with an equal or third highest value.

The Scheme does not allow us to pay for more than three injuries. However, there are additional tariff payments which you can receive (outside multiple injury formula), if these are suffered as a direct result of your injury or assault, you:

  • become pregnant;
  • lose a foetus; or
  • contract a sexually transmitted disease.
Can I Claim if I Witnessed a Violent Crime?

If you have witnessed a violent crime, you may be eligible to make a claim for compensation under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme, provided that you meet certain eligibility criteria.

To be eligible for a CICA claim as a witness, you must have been physically injured as a direct result of the crime, or have suffered a recognised psychiatric condition as a result of witnessing the crime. This could include conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression.

In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, there are other factors that the CICA will take into consideration when assessing your claim, such as the severity of your injuries, the impact of the crime on your life, and any other relevant factors.

Criminal injuries are not just of a physical nature, they can also be psychological. Physical injury is more straightforward for example if you are beaten up, attacked, assaulted, or mugged and have been injured as a result of the criminal conduct of another party you have a right to seek compensation.

Psychological injury though can be more difficult to define. If you witnessed a violent crime, for instance, an armed robbery or someone being attacked, just because you weren’t physically injured doesn’t mean that’s the end of it. Because most of us are lucky enough not to come into contact with violent behaviour, often when we do it has a deep psychological impact.

If you have been witness to an act of violence you could find that you keep reliving the attack over and over. This can lead to a feeling of being afraid and not wanting to go out into public. Fear and panic set in and you become unable to live your life as you did before witnessing the attack. If you can relate to this then you should contact a personal injury solicitor to find out if you could be entitled to claim compensation.

There are two basic requirements for a successful compensation claim, these are that the victim must be the innocent party caught up in a criminal act and that this has led to them suffering the physical or psychological injury. Also, CICA need the mental injury should be diagnosed by a psychiatrist or psychologist. CICA won’t accept the diagnosis from any other medical professional.

Any compensation award will be determined by the type and extent of any injuries and any long-lasting effects it has had on your life. This includes any effect on your ability to earn a living.

How Soon Can I Get My Criminal Injury Compensation through CICA?

The timeframe for receiving criminal injury compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of your case, the evidence required to support your claim, and the workload of the CICA.

In general, the CICA aims to process claims within 6-8 months of receiving all the necessary information and evidence, but some cases can take longer depending on the type of claim you have, the information the criminal injuries compensation authority needs, and the level of compensation you are entitled to.

However, where there are delays in obtaining medical evidence or police information or any other report documentation it can take 11-12 months, and in very complex cases where there is a large loss of earnings, it can take more time. In those cases, we always seek an interim payment.

What You Should Do Once The Abuse or Assault Has Been Reported to The Police?

If you have reported abuse or assault to the police, and are considering making a claim under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme, there are several steps you can take.

It is essential that you cooperate with the police and help with the ongoing investigations in every possible way. This could include but not limited to make a formal statement and in some circumstances attending the court. In some cases, it can be extremely difficult to recall and talk about the abuse or assault but the more details you can provide will generally help your case and aid in making a criminal injuries compensation claim.

If you refuse to make a statement or withdraw your statement then criminal injuries compensation authority (CICA) are unlikely to award you any compensation, as they require that you are the blameless victim of the crime and you fully co-operated with the Police. If you do not fulfil these criteria then CICA usually refuses to compensate for any criminal injury even if you have been seriously assaulted.

Can I Make a CICA Compensation Claim if Nobody Has Been Convicted of The Crime?

If no one has been convicted of the crime, you can still make a claim to the CICA. The CICA does not require a criminal conviction as a condition of awarding compensation.

The conditions before you make a claim are that a crime must have taken place, you have suffered an injury as a result of a blameless act of violence and you have fully cooperated with the police, by reporting the incident and making a full statement.

In order to make a successful claim, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim. This could include a police report or a medical report. The CICA will assess your claim and make a decision based on the evidence provided.

It’s important to note that the CICA operates under a “no-fault” system, which means that they do not make a determination of guilt or innocence in regards to the crime. Instead, they focus solely on the impact of the crime on the victim.

Can I Make a Claim as an Adult if One Has Already Been Made When I Was a Child?

If a claim was made on your behalf when you were a child, you may not able to make a second claim for the same incident when you become an adult. The criminal injuries compensation scheme will not allow you to make a claim for the same incident two times. However, under some special circumstances, it may be possible to have a claim re-opened.

If your previous injury has worsened, or if you have suffered additional injuries as a result of the same incident, you may be eligible to receive additional compensation. You should provide the CICA with any relevant medical evidence and information regarding the impact of your injury on your life, as well as any expenses or losses you have incurred as a result of the injury.

For such cases, we need to establish the basis of the medical evidence the original decision was made. For instance, it may have been for the physical assault/abuse, but over the years the child now turned adult suffers repressed psychological symptoms which could not have been anticipated when the original award was made.

If a psychological report can be obtained that confirms the symptoms have occurred as a result of the original incident, and the symptoms are sufficiently serious to warrant additional compensation. It may be possible to reopen a CICA case where an award was originally made as a child.

Our experienced team of solicitors will be happy to discuss your case on an informal no-obligation basis. If we believe there is sufficient information to submit a further claim we will advise you and act for you on a no win no fee basis.

Who Decides How Much Criminal Injury Compensation I am Likely to Receive?

The amount of criminal injury compensation you are likely to receive is decided by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The CICA is an independent body established to provide compensation to victims of violent crime who have been injured in England, Scotland, or Wales.

The CICA has a set of guidelines and tariffs that they use to determine the amount of compensation that should be awarded in each case. The guidelines take into account various factors, such as the type and severity of the injury, any ongoing physical or psychological effects, and any loss of earnings or expenses incurred as a result of the injury.

Even when the perpetrator of the injuries is caught and found guilty a compensation claim is not made against the criminal as they would likely not have sufficient funds to cover it and would not be covered by any personal liability insurance. This responsibility falls on the CICA who evaluates the merits of any claim and award compensation accordingly.

For a case to be successful the CICA must determine whether or not you played a part in the criminal act and if it resulted in you suffering physical or psychological injuries. This could range from being witness to a criminal act that has a psychological effect on you right through to suffering a most serious physical attack. When considering injuries suffered the most obvious ones are often the physical ones such as cuts, bruises, scarring, or broken bones.

Often the psychological effects are long term and do not heal as readily as the physical injuries. Anxiety, stress, and even depression can result from being caught up in criminal acts and do not always surface immediately after the incident. These can reveal themselves months or even years later and can have long term effects.

The CICA only compensates for injuries that according to their tariffs are worth over £1,000. The most serious injury awards go up to £500,000. You are able to claim for more than one injury, getting the full value for the most serious injury with subsequent injuries receiving a reduction according to the CICA rules. Usually, the three most serious injuries will be compensated but there are some incidents that fall outside this rule.

You may also be compensated for the loss of earnings, medical expenses, and some other costs that occurred as a result of the injuries.

There are many factors that can determine any compensation award like the type of injury, the severity of the injury, and any long term effects it has on your life. We offer a no win no fee service to give advice and help guide you through the process of making a claim whilst ensuring maximum recompense.

We are here to help!

If you, a friend or a family member has suffered physical or psychological injuries as a result of a violent crime, it may be possible to apply to the CICA for compensation.

“The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), is a government organisation which provides compensation for victims of violent crime in England, Wales, and Scotland. We represent victims of violent crime to get compensation from CICA.”

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Broken Jaw Claim Facial Scarring Claim Broken Teeth Claim Fractured Skull Claim Broken Ankle Compensation Sprained Ankle Claim Broken Foot Claim Broken Hip Claim Broken Leg Claim Broken Knee Claim
Facial Injuries Claim Fractured Wrist Claim Broken Eye Socket Claim Punctured Lung Claim Broken Nose Claim Stabbing Injury Claim Femur (Thigh Bone) Claim Fractured Heel Claim Fractured Fibula Claim Fractured Clavicle Claim
Nerve Damage Claim Compensation For Burns Compensation For Scarring Compensation For Epilepsy Compensation For Deafness Compensation For Loss of Ear Compensation For Tinnitus Compensation For Loss of Sight Compensation For Loss of Vision Compensation For Brain Injury
Fractured Elbow Claim Compensation For Loss of Arm Compensation For Arm Paralysis Loss of Finger Claim Fractured Hand Claim Impaired Grip Claim Claim For Upper Arm Bone Fractured Forearm Claim Fractured Forearm Bone Claim Fractured Wrist Claim
Fractured Pelvis Claim Fractured Shoulder Blade Claim Loss of Leg Claim Fractured Tibia (Shin Bone) Claim Fractured Toe Claim Compensation For Paralysis Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Claim Claim For Tongue Injuries Claim For Fractured Finger Tendon Ligament Damage Claim

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Criminal Injury Solicitors is trading name of LPS solicitors. We are a limited company registered in England and Wales (Company number 05777383). We are Authorised & Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). The SRA rules can be found by visiting www.sra.org.uk

Where we offer “No Win, No Fee” services, typically customers pay 25% plus applicable taxes of the award amount from the criminal injuries compensation authority (CICA).

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