cica solicitors
Compensation For Fractured Humerus (Upper Arm Bone)

Claim Criminal Injuries Compensation For Fractured Humerus (Upper Arm Bone)

A fractured humerus—also known as a broken upper arm bone—can be a deeply painful and disabling injury. It affects shoulder movement, arm mobility, and overall strength, significantly disrupting day-to-day life. Victims often struggle with lifting, dressing, driving, or returning to work, especially in jobs requiring physical activity. The pain and recovery process can be even more challenging if the fracture is severe or involves surgical intervention.

If you’ve sustained a fractured humerus as a result of a violent crime, such as an assault, mugging, domestic attack, or armed robbery, you may be entitled to compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The CICA scheme provides financial support for victims of violent crime in England, Scotland, and Wales.

Request a Callback

“No Win, No Fee”

Criminal Injuries Compensation Solicitors

WhatsApp

By submitting this form, I agree to process my personal data in accordance with the privacy policy.

Understanding Fractured Humerus Injuries and Common Causes in Fractured Humerus (Upper Arm Bone) Injury

The humerus is the large bone that connects the shoulder to the elbow and plays a key role in arm movement and upper body strength. When this bone is fractured—particularly through violent means—the impact can be debilitating. A humerus fracture caused by crime often results from direct and forceful trauma, leading to pain, swelling, reduced arm mobility, and in some cases, permanent disability. Depending on the force and nature of the injury, the break may be clean or involve multiple bone fragments, and sometimes cause nerve compression or muscle damage. Frequent crime-related causes of humerus fractures include:

Physical criminal injuries compensation claims CICA

Looking for some help?

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback
  • Blunt force attacks: Assaults with objects like metal poles, baseball bats, or bricks can directly impact the upper arm and break the humerus, often requiring hospitalisation.
  • Acts of domestic violence: Victims may sustain fractures while defending themselves or as a result of repeated physical abuse. These injuries are commonly seen in the context of long-term domestic trauma.
  • Muggings and physical confrontations: Individuals pushed or knocked down during a robbery or altercation may fall awkwardly, causing them to land on an outstretched arm, which can easily result in an upper arm fracture.
  • Gang-related assaults or retaliatory attacks: These often involve coordinated violence using weapons or targeted harm that may lead to complex bone fractures.
  • Random street violence or unprovoked beatings: Incidents involving sudden physical attacks in public spaces can cause victims to sustain upper limb injuries, particularly when the victim attempts to block the blow.

Fractures of the humerus vary in complexity—from stable, closed fractures to open, displaced, or comminuted injuries that require surgical intervention. Recovery timelines depend on the severity and treatment method, but many victims need immobilisation, ongoing physical therapy, and in some cases, long-term rehabilitation. Persistent symptoms such as pain, joint stiffness, reduced range of motion, or nerve damage may interfere with everyday tasks like dressing, lifting, or driving, significantly affecting quality of life.

Eligibility Criteria to Make a CICA Claim for Fractured Humerus

physical criminal Injuries compensation claims cica

Looking for some help?

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

To qualify for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) following a fractured humerus, your case must meet specific eligibility conditions. These rules are in place to ensure that victims of serious, violence-related injuries are able to access financial support—provided the crime and injury meet CICA’s standards. The main eligibility conditions include:

  • The injury must have resulted from a deliberate act of violence occurring in England, Scotland, or Wales. This includes assaults, armed attacks, domestic abuse, or similar incidents.
  • You must have reported the crime to the police as promptly as possible. While the ideal timeframe is within 48 hours, CICA may accept a longer delay if you can provide a reasonable explanation (such as trauma or fear).
  • You must cooperate fully with any police investigation. Even if no one is charged or convicted, your assistance and honesty with authorities are essential.
  • The claim must be submitted within two years of the crime. Exceptions may be made in cases involving minors, mental health issues, or delayed trauma.
  • The injury must meet the injury tariff guidelines set by CICA. A fractured humerus qualifies if it results in substantial recovery or continuing disability.
  • You must not have been responsible for the incident. Provoking or contributing to the violence, including criminal involvement, could reduce or invalidate your claim.
  • You must not have any unspent serious criminal convictions. These convictions could affect your eligibility or reduce the compensation you receive.

Notably, you do not need to know the identity of the offender or see them prosecuted to make a successful claim. The decision is based on the evidence provided—including your police report, medical documentation, and proof that the injury aligns with the scheme’s qualifying criteria.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

How Much Compensation You Can Receive for Fractured Humerus?

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 calculates compensation using a structured tariff that categorises injuries based on severity and impact. The level of compensation for a fractured humerus is determined by how serious the injury is, whether complications occurred, how well you recover, and if one or both arms were affected.

Current CICA compensation amounts for humerus fractures include:

  • One arm, with substantial recovery (Tariff A2): £1,500 – Applicable when the fracture heals well without permanent limitations.
  • One arm, with ongoing significant disability (Tariff A5): £3,500 – For cases where the injury results in chronic pain, restricted movement, or long-term weakness.
  • Both arms, with substantial recovery (Tariff A7): £6,200 – Awarded when both arms are fractured but you regain most of your function.
  • Both arms, with continuing significant disability (Tariff A8): £11,000 – For dual arm fractures that lead to lasting impairments, reduced strength, or mobility issues.

These compensation figures reflect the disruption to physical ability, independence, and quality of life. CICA may offer a higher award if your dominant arm was injured, the fracture required surgery, or complications such as nerve damage or muscle atrophy are involved.

If your injury results in permanent loss of arm function or leads to total upper limb disability, you may qualify for higher-level awards under the arm loss or loss-of-function categories. These can range between £33,000 and £55,000 depending on whether the dominant arm is affected and whether one or both arms are disabled.

Additional Compensation You May Be Entitled To

In addition to the standard award for physical injury, CICA recognises that a fractured humerus may lead to a range of secondary effects that impact your finances, mental health, and daily functionality. These are addressed through additional compensation categories that are designed to reflect the wider consequences of being a victim of violent crime.

Other areas of compensation you may be entitled to include:

  • Mental health injuries: If you’ve experienced psychological trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), clinical depression, or general anxiety disorder as a result of the incident or injury, you may be eligible for a separate award. This requires a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist, with evidence linking the condition directly to the crime.
  • Loss of earnings: If the injury kept you out of work for more than 28 weeks, CICA may compensate for your lost income. You will need to provide solid proof of previous earnings, such as wage slips, tax returns, or letters from your employer confirming your absence and pay details.
  • Special expenses: These cover out-of-pocket costs directly related to the injury that aren’t already paid by the NHS or other public services. Examples include:
    • Travel costs to attend hospital appointments or physiotherapy
    • Home adaptations (e.g., installing handrails, stair lifts, or walk-in showers)
    • Medical aids such as slings, ergonomic tools, or specialist equipment
    • Paid care or assistance if the injury left you temporarily or permanently dependent on help for daily activities

These supplemental claims must be supported by receipts, invoices, or medical referrals. Ensuring your application includes these details will help you recover all entitled costs and achieve the fullest compensation possible under the CICA scheme.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Fractured Humerus (Upper Arm Bone)

Am I eligible to claim CICA compensation if I fractured my humerus in a violent crime?

Yes. If you sustained a fractured humerus—the long bone in your upper arm between the shoulder and the elbow—as a result of a violent crime, you may qualify for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). This applies to incidents such as physical assaults, muggings, domestic abuse, and attacks involving weapons. The injury must have taken place in England, Scotland, or Wales. To be eligible, you must report the crime to the police promptly, fully cooperate with the investigation, and provide medical evidence of your injury. CICA requires that the injury be serious enough to meet their tariff system and that it has had a lasting impact on your health or day-to-day functioning.

What are the CICA compensation tariffs for fractured humerus injuries?

CICA uses a fixed tariff-based system to determine compensation amounts depending on the location and severity of the injury. For fractures of the humerus, the awards are:

  • Fracture of one arm with substantial recovery: £1,500
  • Fracture of one arm with continuing significant disability: £3,500
  • Fracture of both arms with substantial recovery: £6,200
  • Fracture of both arms with continuing significant disability: £11,000

CICA bases these awards on your medical evidence, particularly focusing on how well you have recovered and whether you suffer any long-term limitations in movement, strength, or functionality.

What does 'substantial recovery' mean for a fractured upper arm claim?

“Substantial recovery” refers to a situation where your humerus fracture healed within the expected timeframe—typically within 26 to 28 weeks—and you regained close to full use of your arm. You might still experience some mild discomfort or weakness occasionally, but these symptoms should not significantly interfere with your daily activities, employment, or ability to care for yourself. Medical documentation must show that your recovery was effective and that ongoing complications are minimal or nonexistent. To qualify for this tier, CICA must be satisfied that your arm has functionally returned to normal.

How is 'continuing significant disability' defined by CICA for a fractured humerus?

A fractured humerus is considered to result in continuing significant disability when it leads to long-term or permanent limitations in arm function. This may include:

  • Persistent pain or discomfort in the upper arm
  • Limited range of motion in the shoulder or elbow
  • Loss of muscle strength or coordination
  • Difficulty lifting, carrying, or reaching with the affected arm
  • Ongoing physiotherapy, pain management, or medical intervention

To qualify for this higher tier of compensation, your medical records must clearly indicate that the injury has not fully resolved and continues to impact your life, such as by affecting your ability to work or perform household tasks.

What types of medical evidence are required to support a fractured humerus claim?

Strong medical evidence is essential for a successful claim. You should gather and submit:

  • Emergency department reports from the day of the injury
  • Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or CT scans that show the fracture
  • Reports from orthopaedic surgeons or consultants
  • Records of any surgical interventions, if applicable
  • Physiotherapy or rehabilitation notes detailing range of motion and progress
  • Final prognosis from a healthcare professional indicating whether recovery is complete or if limitations remain
  • Comprehensive documentation increases your credibility and helps CICA accurately assess the severity and outcome of your injury.

Can I still claim if both of my arms were fractured in the same incident?

Yes. If both of your humerus bones were fractured in the same incident—such as during a violent assault involving blunt force or weapons—you are entitled to a higher compensation level due to the greater impact on your mobility and independence. If you recovered well in both arms, you may receive £6,200. If the injuries led to long-term impairments in both arms, the award increases to £11,000. Dual-arm injuries significantly affect self-care, work, and the ability to perform essential daily functions, which is reflected in the compensation scale.

Does the dominance of the arm (left or right) affect compensation for a humerus fracture?

While the CICA tariff system does not specifically differentiate between dominant and non-dominant arms for a humerus fracture, the impact of injuring your dominant arm (usually the one you write or work with) can be much greater. This detail is especially relevant for supporting claims related to:

  • Loss of earnings
  • Psychological effects
  • Special expenses (e.g., ergonomic devices)

Be sure to mention if the dominant arm was affected and explain how that has influenced your job, routine, or ability to care for yourself.

Do I need surgery to qualify for a higher award for a humerus fracture?

No, surgery is not a requirement for a higher compensation tier. What matters most is the functional outcome of your injury. Whether your fracture was treated with immobilisation (such as a sling or cast) or required surgical fixation with plates, pins, or rods, your eligibility is based on the extent and permanence of the disability. If you continue to experience limited use, pain, or require extended physiotherapy, this may still place your injury in the higher compensation bracket—even without surgery.

Can I claim compensation if my injury resulted in long-term pain or restricted movement?

Yes. Persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility following a humerus fracture are all qualifying factors under the category of continuing significant disability. These symptoms can make routine tasks such as dressing, bathing, driving, or typing difficult. If your injury affects your ability to perform your job or reduces your quality of life, CICA may award you the higher-tier compensation. Include detailed medical evidence and functional assessments that show how your arm function is impaired.

Can I receive compensation if I developed a psychological condition as a result of the injury or attack?

Yes, you may claim for psychological injury in addition to your physical injury. Violent incidents often leave emotional scars, especially if the trauma or pain affects your ability to live independently or work. You can apply for a separate award for mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression. You will need:

  • A diagnosis from a registered psychologist or psychiatrist
  • Records from therapy, counselling, or mental health treatment
  • A statement or assessment linking your psychological condition to the violent crime or resulting injury
  • CICA evaluates psychological harm on its own merit and may award additional compensation based on its severity and duration.

Can I still apply for CICA compensation if I had a previous arm injury or condition?

Yes. If the violent crime aggravated a pre-existing injury or led to new complications in an already weakened arm, you can still claim compensation. However, CICA may adjust the award based on the extent to which the injury worsened your condition. To make your case strong, include:

  • Past medical records showing your condition before the incident
  • New assessments showing how the injury affected your previous baseline
  • Comparative functional evaluations or GP notes
  • This helps CICA fairly determine the degree of worsening caused by the criminal act.

What if I needed time off work because of my fractured humerus? Can I claim for loss of earnings?

Yes. If you were unable to work for more than 28 consecutive weeks due to your injury, and you were employed or self-employed prior to the incident, you may be eligible for a loss of earnings award. You must submit:

  • Medical proof of incapacity to work (e.g., sick notes, consultant letters)
  • Evidence of your income prior to the injury, such as payslips, bank statements, or tax returns
  • Letters from your employer or occupational health service detailing your absence and whether reasonable adjustments were made
  • Loss of earnings is paid at a standard rate unless exceptional financial loss can be proven with detailed evidence.

Can I claim for special expenses related to my injury, like mobility aids or help at home?

Yes. If your fractured humerus led to necessary personal costs not covered by the NHS or other public services, you may be able to recover those expenses. These can include:

  • Home assistance (paid or unpaid) for cooking, cleaning, or personal care
  • Ergonomic supports, braces, or medical aids
  • Travel costs for regular medical appointments
  • Special equipment to assist with mobility or household tasks

CICA requires receipts or invoices, as well as a recommendation or explanation from a healthcare provider confirming the expense was necessary due to your injury.

Do I need a criminal conviction to receive compensation from CICA?

No. A conviction is not required. CICA assesses claims based on the civil standard of proof, known as the “balance of probabilities.” This means they must be reasonably convinced that a violent crime took place and directly caused your injuries. You must:

  • Report the incident to police promptly
  • Cooperate with police inquiries and investigations
  • Provide supporting documentation, such as medical records, your statement, and a crime reference number
  • You can be awarded compensation even if the offender was never identified or prosecuted.

Can I still claim if the offender was never caught or charged?

Yes. Many successful CICA claims are made in cases where the offender is unknown or there is insufficient evidence for prosecution. As long as you fulfilled your obligations to report the crime, provided an honest and complete account, and cooperated with authorities, your claim will still be considered. CICA focuses on your actions and the evidence of the injury, not on the outcome of the police investigation or court proceedings.

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

Yes, you can. CICA recognises the actions of individuals who are injured while acting to prevent a crime or protect another person. If you sustained a fractured humerus while trying to intervene in an assault, domestic violence situation, or robbery, you are still eligible for compensation. The scheme takes into account the bravery involved, and your claim will be valid as long as your actions were lawful, proportionate, and not reckless. Provide evidence such as police reports, your own statement, and witness testimonies that confirm your involvement in the incident and the context in which your injury occurred.

Is there a time limit for submitting a CICA claim for a fractured humerus?

Yes. You generally have two years from the date of the violent incident to submit your claim. This time limit is strictly enforced, so applying early is important. However, if exceptional circumstances prevented you from applying on time—such as physical or psychological trauma, legal incapacity, or delayed awareness of your eligibility—CICA may consider extending the deadline. If you were under 18 when the incident occurred, the two-year limit begins from your 18th birthday, giving you until the age of 20 to apply. Always include documentation explaining any delay if applying late.

Can I still make a claim if I was a child at the time of the injury?

Yes. If the injury occurred while you were under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian can file the application on your behalf. If no one did so, you are allowed to make the claim yourself anytime up to your 20th birthday. CICA is often more lenient with claims involving minors, especially in cases involving abuse, trauma, or fear of reporting. If reporting was delayed due to fear or psychological impact, provide supporting evidence from social workers, therapists, or child protection agencies.

Can I apply for CICA compensation if I had NHS treatment and didn’t pay for any services?

Yes. Your eligibility for compensation is not based on whether you paid for treatment. Receiving free medical care through the NHS does not disqualify you from making a claim. The compensation is awarded for the injury itself—not for the cost of care. However, if you had additional expenses—such as private treatment, transportation to appointments, or special aids not provided by the NHS—you may claim these under CICA’s special expenses category. Be sure to retain receipts and obtain medical recommendations for any non-NHS treatments or purchases.

Will my compensation be affected if I had a previous condition in my arm?

Not necessarily. If you had a prior injury or condition in your arm, you can still receive compensation if the violent incident worsened your condition or caused a new fracture. CICA will examine the degree to which your function was impaired before the crime and how much worse it became afterward. Your compensation may be reduced if the injury only slightly aggravated your pre-existing condition, but it will still reflect the additional damage. Medical records from before and after the incident will be vital in proving the change in your condition.

Can I include psychological trauma as part of my CICA claim for a fractured arm?

Yes. Emotional and psychological harm is a common and valid part of many CICA claims. If you’ve developed mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the assault or the ongoing effects of your injury, you may be eligible for additional compensation. To support a psychological injury claim, you’ll need:

  • A formal diagnosis from a psychologist or psychiatrist
  • Documentation of ongoing treatment (counselling, medication, therapy)
  • Evidence linking the condition to the crime or the trauma of your injury
  • Psychological claims are assessed separately and can increase the total value of your award.

Can I claim for help at home if my arm injury made it hard to manage daily tasks?

Yes. If your fractured humerus left you unable to perform essential household tasks—such as cooking, cleaning, personal grooming, or shopping—you may be able to claim for assistance. This applies whether you received help from a paid professional or from family members. You’ll need to show:

  • Receipts or invoices for paid services
  • Written statements from unpaid carers explaining the support they provided
  • A recommendation from your GP or occupational therapist stating the necessity for help
  • These additional costs fall under the special expenses category and must be directly related to your injury.

What if the injury affected my ability to care for children or dependents?

If your upper arm injury prevented you from caring for children, elderly relatives, or individuals with disabilities, this limitation should be documented in your claim. While CICA does not offer a separate compensation figure solely for lost caregiving capacity, this factor strengthens your claim overall and can support claims for:

  • Psychological injury due to frustration, stress, or emotional toll
  • Special expenses related to hiring external care support
  • Evidence of significant lifestyle disruption due to caregiving limitations
  • Include medical reports and statements from those impacted by your reduced ability to provide care.

Do I need legal assistance to make a CICA claim for a fractured humerus?

No. You are not required to hire a solicitor or legal advisor to make a successful CICA claim. The application process is designed to be straightforward, and many people manage it on their own. However, legal assistance can be useful if your case is complex—for example, involving multiple injuries, late submission, or disputed medical evidence. If you do use a solicitor, confirm their fees upfront, as some may take a portion of your compensation. You can also get free assistance from victim support charities or Citizens Advice.

What steps can I take to strengthen my CICA claim for a fractured upper arm?

To improve your chances of receiving the highest possible compensation:

  • Report the crime to the police immediately and obtain a crime reference number
  • Seek prompt medical attention and follow all recommended treatments and therapies
  • Gather all relevant medical evidence, including imaging, surgery reports, and therapy progress notes
  • Keep a record of how the injury impacts your daily life, work, and emotional well-being
  • Maintain receipts for out-of-pocket expenses related to your recovery
  • Include statements from employers, carers, or healthcare professionals to support your claim
  • Providing clear, consistent, and detailed evidence at every stage will significantly increase your chances of a successful and fair outcome.
0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Expert Criminal Injury Solicitor

Helping Victims of Violent Crimes To Recover Compensation From CICA

Understanding Humerus Fractures and Different Types of Humerus Fractures

Fractures of the humerus can differ significantly in complexity, healing duration, and long-term outcomes depending on the nature of the break and how the injury occurred. In cases linked to violent crime, the trauma is often sudden and forceful, leading to serious medical complications and prolonged recovery. The humerus is a weight-bearing bone essential to arm and shoulder function, so damage to this area can have a major impact on your ability to perform everyday tasks. Several types of humerus fractures may qualify for CICA compensation, including:

  • Mid-shaft fractures: These occur in the central portion of the humerus and are commonly caused by blunt force trauma. They often result in reduced mobility and can also damage the radial nerve, leading to weakness in the hand or wrist.
  • Proximal humerus fractures: Occur near the shoulder joint and frequently lead to limited range of motion or frozen shoulder. Treatment may require open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) surgery to restore proper alignment.
  • Distal humerus fractures: Located close to the elbow joint, these fractures can be challenging to treat due to the involvement of cartilage and the potential for arthritis or long-term stiffness.
  • Comminuted fractures: The bone is broken into several pieces, usually from high-impact incidents. These injuries often require surgical reconstruction using metal hardware and involve extended rehabilitation.
  • Compound (open) fractures: These are the most severe, where the broken bone protrudes through the skin, increasing the likelihood of infection and longer recovery times.

The type of fracture, the dominant arm’s involvement, surgical intervention, and any ongoing loss of strength or flexibility will directly influence the level of compensation CICA may award. Submitting detailed medical assessments and treatment records is key to demonstrating the extent of disability and qualifying for higher compensation tiers.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Building a Strong Claim: Evidence You’ll Need For Humerus Fractures Injuries

To secure the maximum possible compensation through the CICA scheme for a fractured humerus, it’s essential to present a compelling, well-documented claim. CICA makes decisions based on the balance of probabilities, meaning your evidence must clearly link the injury to a violent crime and demonstrate the extent of the harm caused. The most effective supporting evidence includes:

  • Police report and crime reference number: This confirms the incident was officially reported as a violent crime and provides essential case details. The report should describe the event, including where and how the injury occurred.
  • Comprehensive medical documentation: This includes A&E admission notes, imaging scans (X-rays, CT scans), discharge summaries, surgery notes (if applicable), and written confirmation of the diagnosis from treating physicians or consultants.
  • Rehabilitation and physiotherapy records: These show the length and intensity of your treatment and provide insight into the physical limitations or pain you’re still experiencing.
  • Consultant or specialist assessments: Letters from orthopaedic surgeons or rehabilitation specialists that confirm permanent damage, loss of movement, or long-term pain can strongly support your case.
  • Personal impact statement: This should provide a clear, honest account of how the injury has changed your day-to-day life. Include details about work restrictions, household duties, parenting challenges, social withdrawal, and emotional distress.
  • Statements from others: Family members, employers, or support workers can add third-party credibility by explaining the practical effects of your injury on your lifestyle and routines.

All documents should be dated, signed, and wherever possible, provided on professional letterhead. Strong, cohesive evidence can be the difference between a minimal award and full compensation.

Special Expenses and Loss of Income Related to a Fractured Humerus

Experiencing a fractured humerus due to a violent crime can lead to significant financial burdens, especially if your daily life, mobility, or ability to work is disrupted. In addition to physical injury compensation, CICA may award special expenses that reflect the real-world costs you’ve incurred as a result of your injury. Eligible special expenses and income losses may include:

  • Medical and rehabilitation aids: Items such as arm slings, orthopedic braces, ergonomic tools, or customised equipment to assist with daily living can be claimed.
  • Home and mobility adaptations: Expenses for installing stair rails, bathing aids, or adjusting furniture and door handles to accommodate restricted arm movement may be reimbursable.
  • Professional care or domestic assistance: If your injury required you to rely on help with tasks like cooking, personal hygiene, or childcare, CICA can cover the cost of paid assistance.
  • Travel expenses: Any necessary transport to and from hospital visits, physiotherapy sessions, or medical evaluations can be included—especially if public transport was inaccessible due to your condition.
  • Private treatment or consultations: In cases where NHS services were delayed or not available, the cost of private physiotherapy or orthopaedic appointments may be reimbursed.
  • Loss of income: If you were out of work for more than 28 weeks, CICA may compensate you for lost wages. This requires clear documentation, such as payslips, tax returns, or employer statements confirming your absence and pre-injury earnings.

All special expense claims must be:

  • Directly related to the injury
  • Necessary for your recovery or day-to-day support
  • Supported by valid receipts, medical records, or care provider documentation
  • Not covered by other public healthcare or insurance schemes

By keeping accurate records and submitting these with your claim, you increase the likelihood of recovering the full range of expenses incurred due to your injury.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Psychological Effects of an Upper Arm Fracture

The emotional and psychological toll of a fractured humerus can be just as debilitating as the physical injury itself. When pain, limited mobility, and reliance on others disrupt your daily routine, it often leads to mental health challenges that deserve recognition and support. Psychological injuries stemming from violent trauma—especially when they reduce your independence—can have long-lasting consequences that affect both your personal life and professional goals. Common psychological symptoms experienced by victims include:

  • Depression and low mood: Caused by chronic pain, isolation, or a loss of autonomy. This may result in feelings of hopelessness or reduced interest in previously enjoyed activities.
  • Generalised anxiety or panic attacks: Ongoing stress about worsening symptoms, future medical outcomes, or fear of social situations and physical vulnerability.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Particularly in cases where the fracture occurred during a violent assault. Victims may relive the event through nightmares, flashbacks, or hypervigilance.
  • Reduced self-esteem and confidence: Especially when you are no longer able to perform work tasks, manage household responsibilities, or maintain your previous lifestyle.

If you’ve experienced psychological trauma following your injury and have received a diagnosis from a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, you may be eligible for CICA compensation. Mental health awards can range from £1,000 to £27,000 depending on the severity, duration, and impact of your condition. Including therapy records, medical reports, and treatment plans will strengthen this part of your claim and ensure your emotional recovery is taken seriously.

Long-Term Medical and Rehabilitation Considerations

Recovering from a fractured humerus—especially one sustained during a violent crime—can involve a long and complex rehabilitation process. The upper arm plays a critical role in functional movement, and regaining full strength and range of motion often requires extended care beyond standard treatment. In many cases, the healing phase is followed by months or even years of physical therapy, specialist consultations, and adaptation strategies for daily living.

CICA takes into account a wide range of long-term medical and rehabilitative needs, including:

  • Extended physiotherapy or occupational therapy: To help rebuild muscle strength, improve joint mobility, and restore fine motor skills for everyday tasks.
  • Follow-up care with orthopaedic specialists: Necessary for monitoring bone healing, evaluating surgical outcomes, or addressing complications such as joint stiffness or delayed union.
  • Chronic pain treatment plans: Victims may experience persistent nerve pain, inflammation, or post-surgical discomfort that requires ongoing medication, injections, or pain management services.
  • Adaptive equipment and home modifications: Devices such as ergonomic chairs, lifting aids, or single-handed tools can help accommodate reduced arm strength and prevent further injury.
  • Vocational rehabilitation and workplace adaptation: If your injury limits your ability to return to your previous job, support for retraining or reasonable adjustments in the workplace may be essential.

To ensure these long-term needs are factored into your CICA compensation award, it’s crucial to submit medical reports, therapy notes, treatment referrals, and documented recommendations from healthcare providers. This helps establish the lasting nature of your injury and reinforces your case for ongoing support.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

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.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback
Physical criminal injuries compensation claims CICA

Increasing the Chances of a Successful CICA Claim

physical criminal Injuries compensation claims cica

Looking for some help?

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

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.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

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.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

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.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

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.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

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.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

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.”

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

“No Win, No Fee”

Criminal Injuries Compensation Solicitors

WhatsApp

By submitting this form, I agree to process my personal data in accordance with the privacy policy.

criminal injuries compensation
lexcel logo

Sexual Violence Claims

Other Injuries Claims

CICA Claim Calculators

Company

Other CICA Claim Categories

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

© 2026 • Criminal Injury Solicitors • All Rights Reserved.

info@criminalinjurysolicitor.co.uk

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).

You can click on links to find our complaints procedure, terms of use, privacy policy and cookies policy .

We undertake marketing activities which comply with Solicitors Regulation Authority Code of Conduct 2011 (in particular, Chapter 8 – Publicity). The information published or provided on this website is for information purposes only.

The materials including but not limited to text, images, graphics, on this website do not constitute as legal advice and are provided for general information purposes only. No warranty, whether express or implied is given in relation to such materials on this website. We shall not be liable for any technical, editorial, typographical or other errors or omissions within the information provided on this website, nor shall we be responsible for the content of any web images or information linked to this website. Our website or content on our website is not a substitute for a solicitor’s legal advice. If you need any legal advice, please contact us through chat, email or telephone number provided on this website.