Claim Criminal Injuries Compensation For Loss of Arm
Losing an arm as a result of a violent crime is one of the most severe injuries a person can endure. The physical, emotional, and financial impact can last a lifetime. Whether the injury occurred during an assault, armed robbery, or another form of violent attack, victims in England, Scotland, or Wales may be entitled to compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
CICA exists to provide financial support for innocent victims of violent crime. If you’ve experienced the trauma of losing an arm, understanding your rights, the claims process, and how compensation is calculated is critical to rebuilding your life. We will help you navigate your CICA claim, from injury classification and eligibility to the potential financial support you may receive.
Understanding Arm Loss and Common Criminal Causes of Loss of Arm
In CICA terms, “loss of arm” covers more than just surgical amputation. It includes:
- Full amputation above or below the elbow
- Irreversible loss of function or paralysis of the arm
- Surgically removed arm due to trauma-related complications
Arm loss can result from a wide range of violent crimes, often involving extreme force, weapons, or intentional harm. These crimes are not only physically damaging but also psychologically scarring and frequently result in permanent disability. Below are common violent crime scenarios that can lead to the loss of an arm:
- Armed assaults: One of the most frequent causes of traumatic limb injuries. Victims may be struck with machetes, axes, knives, blunt weapons, or shot with firearms. These attacks can cause immediate severance or such extensive bone and nerve damage that surgical amputation becomes necessary.
- Domestic violence: In severe and repeated abuse situations, victims may sustain cumulative injuries over time, including broken bones, deep lacerations, and nerve injuries. When damage becomes irreversible, especially with neglected injuries, amputation or loss of use of the arm may follow.
- Gang-related violence: Brutal retaliatory acts by gangs often involve the intentional mutilation of limbs. Victims may be targeted to send a message or inflict permanent disability, and these attacks frequently involve weapons or group beatings.
- Explosive-related attacks: While less common, violence involving explosives, fireworks, or improvised devices can lead to catastrophic injuries, especially in gang warfare or hate crimes. Arms are often the first to absorb the blast, resulting in traumatic amputation.
- Torture and captivity abuse: Victims of kidnapping or unlawful detention may be subjected to repeated physical harm, forced restraints, or beatings that cause irreparable damage. Long-term nerve compression or infections can also result in the need for surgical intervention.
- Unprovoked public attacks: Random attacks, especially in public spaces with weapons or extreme force, can lead to elbow dislocations, compound fractures, or lacerations that develop complications requiring amputation.
These injuries often require emergency surgery, lengthy hospital stays, ongoing rehabilitation, and extensive psychological support. For a successful CICA claim, it’s crucial that the link between the criminal act and the resulting injury is well-documented in medical and police records.
In all these scenarios, victims often require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, prosthetics, and psychological support. Medical documentation must clearly establish that the injury was a direct result of a violent act.
Eligibility Criteria to Make a CICA Claim for Arm Loss
To qualify for CICA compensation, your situation must meet specific eligibility criteria that are designed to ensure only genuine victims of violent crime are supported. These requirements must be met fully for a claim to proceed:
- The injury must have happened in England, Scotland, or Wales: CICA only handles claims for criminal injuries that occurred within the UK, specifically in these three regions. Injuries sustained abroad, even if caused by UK citizens, are not eligible under this scheme.
- You must be the victim of a violent crime: This includes any intentional act such as assault, attempted murder, armed robbery, domestic abuse, sexual violence, or gang-related attacks. The crime must involve physical violence or a direct threat to your safety.
- The crime must be reported to the police promptly: Typically, this means within 48 hours of the incident. If there was a delay—due to shock, fear of the perpetrator, or medical incapacity—you must provide a valid reason. Reporting is essential for verification and police documentation.
- You must cooperate with the police investigation and prosecution: Even if no charges are brought or the suspect isn’t identified, your cooperation must be evident. Refusing to give a statement or withdrawing from proceedings can result in the claim being rejected.
- You must submit your CICA claim within 2 years of the date of the incident: This deadline is strictly enforced unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as ongoing trauma, mental health conditions, or if the victim is a minor at the time of the incident. Claims involving historical abuse may be treated differently.
- The injury must qualify under the CICA tariff of injuries: This includes both physical injuries like amputation, loss of limb function, and psychological trauma. The tariff categorises injuries into financial bands, and arm loss is one of the most serious categories eligible.
- You must not have caused or significantly contributed to the incident: If the victim was involved in criminal behaviour, instigated the attack, or has unspent criminal convictions, CICA may reduce the award or reject the claim entirely. Full transparency about your conduct during the incident is critical.
Meeting these requirements with strong supporting evidence is the foundation of a successful CICA compensation claim. Failure to comply with any of them could lead to delays or rejection, regardless of the injury’s severity.
How Much Compensation You Can Receive for Loss of Arm?
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 awards compensation according to a fixed tariff based on the type and severity of injury. Loss of an arm—through amputation or equivalent loss of function—is among the highest-valued injuries in the tariff.
CICA Tariff for Arm Loss:
Physical Loss of the Arm (Amputation):
- Loss of one non-dominant arm: £33,000
- Loss of one dominant arm: £55,000
- Loss of one arm where there is no remaining arm or hand with any useful function: £82,000
- Loss of both arms: £110,000
Paralysis or Equivalent Loss of Function:
- One non-dominant arm: £27,000
- One dominant arm: £44,000
- One arm where there is no remaining arm or hand with any useful function: £82,000
- Both arms (total functional loss): £82,000
The dominant arm is typically the one used for writing and daily tasks. The severity and practical impact of the injury will influence how CICA applies the tariff. A complete loss of both arms or loss without any useful remaining limb function is the most severely compensated scenario.
Additional Compensation Beyond the Physical Injury
CICA also allows additional compensation in certain circumstances. These can significantly increase your total award:
- Psychological Injury
If you suffer from PTSD, depression, or anxiety due to the crime or its aftermath, you may be eligible for an additional award:
- Requires diagnosis from a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist
- Awards range from £1,000 to over £27,000 depending on severity and duration
- Loss of Earnings
If you are unable to work for more than 28 weeks due to your injury:
- You can claim loss of earnings if you were employed or self-employed at the time
- Documentation such as tax records or payslips must be provided
- Special Expenses
These include costs directly related to your injury, such as:
- Prosthetic limbs (if not fully covered by the NHS)
- Medical aids and adaptive equipment (e.g. voice-activated tech, dressing aids)
- Home modifications (e.g. ramps, accessible bathrooms)
- Mobility adaptations for vehicles
- Paid carers or domestic support
- Multiple Injuries
If you suffered more than one qualifying injury, the CICA applies a formula:
- 100% of the most serious injury
- 30% of the second
- 15% of the third
Example: A dominant arm amputation (£55,000) and severe PTSD (£13,500) would result in: £55,000 + 30% of £13,500 = £55,000 + £4,050 = £59,050 total.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Loss of Arm
Can I claim CICA compensation for the loss of an arm caused by a violent crime?
Yes. If you have lost an arm—either through amputation or complete loss of function—as a direct result of a violent crime in England, Scotland, or Wales, you may be eligible for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The injury must have occurred due to an intentional act of violence, such as a stabbing, shooting, assault with a weapon, or any other deliberate criminal act.
CICA will consider claims where the loss was immediate (e.g., traumatic amputation at the scene) or occurred later due to medical necessity (e.g., surgical amputation following complications). Your injury must be reported to the police as soon as reasonably possible, and you must have cooperated fully with any investigation for your claim to be considered.
What types of arm loss injuries and functional impairments are covered under the CICA tariff and how much compensation is available?
CICA offers compensation for both the physical loss and functional loss of one or both arms, based on a fixed tariff. The award amount depends on whether your arm is dominant or non-dominant, and whether you have lost one or both arms or have suffered complete loss of use. The tariff includes:
- Loss of one non-dominant arm: £33,000
- Loss of one dominant arm: £55,000
- Loss of one arm with no useful function remaining in the other arm or hand: £82,000
- Loss of both arms: £110,000
For cases where the arm remains but is permanently paralyzed or useless, CICA applies equivalent tariffs:
- Paralysis/loss of function of one non-dominant arm: £27,000
- Paralysis/loss of function of one dominant arm: £44,000
- Total loss of function with no remaining useful limb: £82,000
- Total functional loss of both arms: £82,000
These awards are based on the severity of the disability and how the injury impacts your daily living, work, and independence.
How does CICA determine which arm is dominant for compensation purposes?
Dominance is important because most people use one hand predominantly for tasks such as writing, eating, dressing, and other activities of daily living. CICA awards higher compensation for the loss or total impairment of a dominant arm. To determine which arm is dominant, CICA may review:
- Medical records
- Physiotherapy or occupational therapy assessments
- Your own written statement detailing hand use before the injury
- If there’s uncertainty, CICA may ask for further evidence to confirm the dominant arm.
What if I lost arm function due to nerve damage rather than amputation?
If a violent attack resulted in nerve damage or trauma that led to permanent loss of movement, sensation, or strength, CICA considers it equivalent to physical loss if the arm no longer has any functional use. Such cases require:
- Reports from neurologists or orthopaedic specialists
- Nerve conduction studies
- Physiotherapy assessments confirming lack of recovery
- Even if the arm is still attached, if it cannot be used effectively, you may qualify under the appropriate tariff for loss of function.
Can I claim if the arm was amputated surgically after the incident rather than at the scene?
Yes. Whether the arm was removed immediately or at a later date due to infection, tissue death, or medical complications does not change your eligibility. If the need for surgery was directly linked to the original criminal injury, it qualifies under the same tariffs for amputation. You’ll need to provide:
- Surgical reports or hospital discharge summaries
- Evidence connecting the delayed amputation to the violent crime
- CICA recognises surgical amputation as equally serious as traumatic amputation.
Can I claim additional compensation for mental health problems following the loss of my arm?
Yes. Many victims of serious physical injuries experience psychological trauma. You may be eligible for an additional award if you developed a recognised mental illness such as:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression or anxiety
- Adjustment disorder
To qualify for a mental injury award, the condition must:
- Be diagnosed by a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist
- Last at least six weeks
- Have a substantial adverse effect on your daily life
This award is separate from physical injury compensation and can increase your total payout.
Can I claim compensation for special expenses related to my arm loss?
Yes. If you’ve incurred extra costs as a direct result of your injury and they are not covered by public services, you may claim for special expenses. These can include:
- Prosthetic limbs or specialist fittings
- Adapted clothing or tools
- Home or vehicle modifications
- Assistive technology or mobility aids
- Paid care or domestic help
- Receipts, invoices, or quotes are required for each item. The expenses must be necessary, reasonable, and directly related to your injury.
Can I claim for loss of earnings due to my arm injury?
Yes. If your injury has left you unable to work for more than 28 weeks, you may be entitled to loss of earnings. To qualify, you must have been:
- In employment or self-employment before the incident
- Medically deemed unfit for work as a result of the injury
Required documentation includes:
- GP or consultant letters
- Fit notes or occupational health assessments
- Payslips, P60s, or tax returns
- CICA calculates loss of earnings using a set rate unless you can prove exceptional circumstances.
Can I apply if the person who attacked me was never caught or prosecuted?
Yes. A conviction is not required to make a successful CICA claim. You must:
- Report the crime to the police promptly
- Cooperate fully with their investigation
- Provide medical and supporting documentation
- CICA uses the balance of probabilities to assess claims. If your evidence is credible and consistent, your claim may still be accepted.
Does it matter if the injury happened while I was defending myself?
No. If you were injured while trying to protect yourself or someone else from harm, you may still be eligible for compensation. CICA recognises acts of self-defence, but they will assess:
- Whether your actions were proportionate
- Whether you contributed to the escalation of the violence
- As long as your response was reasonable and you didn’t provoke the incident, you should remain eligible.
Can I apply if the injury happened some time ago but I haven’t claimed yet?
CICA requires claims to be submitted within two years of reporting the crime to the police. However, exceptions are made if:
You were mentally unfit to apply earlier
- The injury or its consequences only became apparent later
- You’ll need to explain the delay and provide supporting documentation, such as medical records or therapist letters.
What evidence do I need to submit with my CICA application for arm loss?
The stronger your evidence, the better your chances. Essential documents include:
- Police incident number or reports
- Hospital and surgical records
- Physiotherapy or rehabilitation notes
- Photographs, if available
- Specialist assessments (e.g., neurological, orthopaedic)
Providing as much detail as possible will help ensure your injury is properly categorised.
What if I already had problems with my arm before the attack?
If you had a pre-existing condition, your award may be adjusted to reflect the degree to which the crime worsened your health. You’ll need:
- Evidence of your arm’s condition before the incident
- Comparative medical notes showing the post-incident impact
- If the injury aggravated an existing issue or made you permanently disabled, compensation may still be awarded proportionally.
Can I receive compensation if the loss of my arm prevents me from caring for dependents?
Yes. If your arm injury significantly limits your ability to provide care for children, elderly family members, or disabled individuals who relied on you, CICA may consider this when assessing special expenses or mental injury claims. While there’s no specific tariff for caregiving loss, this can influence the overall assessment of your injury’s impact on daily life.
Can I claim if I was a victim of domestic violence and lost arm function as a result?
Absolutely. CICA recognises domestic abuse as a form of violent crime, and arm injuries sustained during an abusive relationship—whether from blunt force trauma, assault with a weapon, or restraint—are eligible. You should:
- Report the abuse to the police
- Seek medical treatment and retain your records
- Cooperate with any investigations
- Support from a domestic abuse service or victim support worker can strengthen your application.
What steps can I take if CICA refuses my claim or offers a lower award than expected for arm loss?
If your claim is refused or the compensation offered is less than what you believe is fair, you can request a review of the decision within 56 days. During this process, you can provide further details, clarify any points from your original application, or submit new medical or police evidence to support your case.
If the review does not change the outcome, you can appeal the decision to the First-tier Tribunal (Criminal Injuries Compensation). This independent tribunal will reassess your claim based on the merits and any new information provided. It’s highly recommended to seek help from a solicitor or support organisation for guidance, especially for complex cases.
Can I claim for more than one injury sustained during the same violent incident?
Yes, CICA allows you to claim for multiple injuries from the same incident, but they apply the multiple injury formula, which limits the payout:
- 100% of the tariff for the most serious injury
- 30% for the second most serious
- 15% for the third
If you suffered an arm amputation along with additional injuries (e.g., broken ribs, facial scars, or psychological harm), CICA will use this formula to calculate your combined award. It’s important to fully list and provide documentation for all injuries sustained.
Are prosthetic limbs, rehabilitation, or assistive equipment covered under special expenses?
Yes. Special expenses cover necessary costs you incur because of your injury, which are not provided by the NHS or other public services. For arm loss, this may include:
- Prosthetic limbs and specialist fittings
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation support
- Ergonomic or modified tools for daily use
- Home or workplace modifications
- Personal care items or assistive technology
These expenses must be reasonable and supported by receipts, medical recommendations, or occupational therapist reports. CICA aims to ensure that you can maintain independence and quality of life post-injury.
Can I receive compensation for long-term care or assistance needed due to arm loss?
Yes. If your arm injury results in you needing help with everyday tasks such as washing, dressing, cooking, or managing at work, you may be eligible for compensation related to:
- Professional care services (e.g., paid carers or personal assistants)
- Informal care provided by friends or family (although this is more limited and not always awarded)
You’ll need supporting documentation such as care plans, letters from GPs, or occupational therapy assessments to show the extent of your needs and duration of required assistance.
Is there additional support or consideration for child victims who lose an arm in a violent crime?
Yes. If the injured person is a child, a parent or legal guardian can make the application on their behalf. CICA recognises that the long-term impact of such an injury on a child’s development, education, and independence can be substantial. Additional considerations may include:
- A child’s payment for the loss of parental care (if applicable)
- Educational support needs
- Psychological trauma from disfigurement or functional limitation
The compensation awarded can be placed in a trust until the child reaches adulthood to ensure its safe use.
How does CICA evaluate the impact of arm loss on my future employment and career opportunities?
While CICA’s standard tariffs are based on injury severity, you may also be eligible for compensation if your injury significantly disrupts your ability to work. You can claim for loss of earnings if:
- You are unable to work for over 28 weeks
- You were employed or self-employed prior to the incident
- Your injury permanently affects your ability to work
Supporting documents should include medical evidence of your incapacity and financial records like payslips or tax returns. This is particularly important if your work involved manual labour or physical tasks dependent on full arm function.
How will CICA handle my claim if I had a pre-existing condition in the injured arm?
If your arm was already impaired before the violent crime, CICA will assess how much additional disability resulted from the new injury. This might reduce the overall award but does not disqualify you from claiming. To demonstrate the extent of new damage, provide:
- Historical medical records showing your baseline condition
- New assessments highlighting the worsening or new limitations
- Statements from GPs or consultants confirming causation
- The more clearly you distinguish between pre-existing and crime-related issues, the more accurate your award will be.
Are there other types of compensation I can claim in connection with arm loss?
Yes. In addition to the physical injury tariff, you may be eligible for:
- Mental injury compensation (e.g., for PTSD or anxiety)
- Special expenses (mobility aids, prosthetics, home modifications)
- Loss of earnings (as discussed above)
- Child’s payment or dependency payment (if you care for dependents who are now affected)
Providing full documentation of the broader impact on your life will allow CICA to fully assess all applicable awards.
Will receiving CICA compensation affect my entitlement to state benefits?
CICA awards are not taxed, but they can affect means-tested benefits like Universal Credit or Housing Benefit. To protect your eligibility, it’s recommended to set up a Personal Injury Trust before receiving your compensation.
This type of trust allows the compensation to be managed without being counted as part of your available assets. Many solicitors can set up these trusts quickly, and Victim Support or Citizens Advice can point you to reliable legal advisors.
Where can I turn for reliable help with my CICA claim or appeal process?
Several free or low-cost services can guide you through the CICA process, including:
- Victim Support – Offers emotional and practical help throughout the claims process
- Citizens Advice – Provides assistance with paperwork and eligibility
- Specialist solicitors – Handle applications, reviews, and appeals (especially useful in complex or high-value claims)
- Charities and advocacy groups – For victims of domestic violence, violent crime, or amputation-related trauma
Getting expert support ensures your claim is properly documented and avoids delays or errors that can affect your outcome.
Understanding Arm Injuries and Different Types of Arm Injuries
Before you begin your CICA compensation claim, it’s crucial to understand the range of injuries that fall under the category of “arm loss.” Not all arm injuries are the same, and different types of trauma can lead to partial or total loss of function or require amputation. These distinctions play a key role in how much compensation you may receive.
Here are the most common types of arm injuries considered in CICA claims:
- Above-elbow amputation: The arm is removed from a point above the elbow, typically following a violent event that causes extensive tissue, bone, and nerve damage. These injuries are among the most serious, often resulting in permanent disability and significant lifestyle changes.
- Below-elbow amputation: This involves surgical removal of the arm below the elbow joint. Though some function may remain with a well-fitted prosthetic, this injury still causes considerable disruption to everyday life and work capabilities.
- Total loss of function due to nerve damage: In some cases, the arm is not amputated but becomes completely non-functional due to permanent nerve damage. Paralysis from brachial plexus injury or spinal trauma is treated similarly under the CICA tariff.
- Partial loss of function with chronic pain and limited mobility: Victims may retain the arm but lose key abilities, such as lifting, gripping, or rotating. Though not as severe as complete loss, these injuries can still qualify for substantial compensation if they are long-lasting or permanent.
- Loss of both arms or combined injuries: When both arms are affected—either through amputation or total loss of function—the physical and psychological burden is immense. CICA considers these as among the highest-level injuries for compensation.
- Delayed amputation due to complications: In some cases, injuries may initially appear treatable but later require amputation due to infection, necrosis, or failed reconstructive surgery. These still qualify fully under the CICA scheme.
Understanding the type of injury you’ve suffered helps ensure you claim the correct level of compensation and gather the most appropriate evidence.
Strengthening Your CICA Claim: Medical and Legal Evidence
To maximise your CICA award, strong evidence must support both the cause and consequences of your injury. CICA relies heavily on documentation that clearly connects the violent act to the physical and psychological damage you experienced.
- Police reports: Ensure the incident is recorded as a violent crime. Include details about when and how the crime occurred, and any information about the perpetrator.
- Medical records: Collect documents from emergency treatment, surgery, prosthetic assessments, rehabilitation, and follow-up care.
- Therapist and specialist reports: Occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and orthopaedic evaluations can show how your injury affects function and daily living.
- Photographic evidence: Provide images of surgical wounds, limb condition before and after treatment, and prosthetic use if applicable.
- Personal statement: Clearly explain how your injury has changed your life. Talk about work, relationships, independence, hobbies, and mental health.
- Supporting statements: Friends, family, or carers can submit observations about your struggles and recovery.
The more consistent, thorough, and medically verified your evidence is, the stronger your case will be.
Special Expenses and Financial Losses from Arm Amputation
CICA allows additional compensation for the financial impact of losing an arm. These special expenses cover more than medical treatment and aim to help victims regain independence.
- Custom prosthetics: If NHS-issued prosthetics are insufficient, you can claim for specialised limbs like myoelectric arms or sport-specific prosthetics.
- Adaptive equipment: One-handed tools, ergonomic devices, or digital assistance technology can qualify.
- Home and vehicle modifications: CICA may compensate for structural changes to your living environment or vehicle to restore independence.
- Professional care: Costs for personal care, whether provided by paid caregivers or support workers, can be included if properly documented.
- Medical supplies and therapy aids: Claim expenses for stump care products, orthotics, or therapy tools.
- Loss of income: If you’re unable to return to work or had to reduce hours due to the injury, provide payslips and tax records to support your loss of earnings claim.
All special expenses must be directly related to the injury and necessary for your recovery or quality of life. Keep receipts and professional recommendations to strengthen your claim.
Psychological Trauma After Losing an Arm
Arm loss often causes profound emotional distress. CICA recognises psychological trauma as a separate compensable injury.
- Mental health conditions: PTSD, anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders are common. These often develop over time, even if the initial shock is managed.
- Professional diagnosis: CICA requires formal diagnosis by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. GP notes alone are not sufficient.
- Ongoing therapy: If you are in counselling or therapy, include treatment summaries to show long-term impact.
- Real-life consequences: Describe how psychological symptoms affect sleep, confidence, social life, and your ability to cope day-to-day.
Depending on the severity and duration of your symptoms, psychological compensation may range from £1,000 to £27,000.
Long-Term Medical and Rehabilitation Needs
Arm amputation leads to significant long-term care needs, which CICA takes into account when calculating awards. These needs often last a lifetime and include both physical and emotional aspects.
- Prosthetic maintenance: Regular fittings, replacements, and repairs are ongoing requirements.
- Physiotherapy: Continuous therapy helps maintain strength, balance, and reduce overuse injury in the remaining limb.
- Pain management: Phantom limb pain or nerve pain may require specialist treatments like nerve blocks, medication, or alternative therapies.
- Occupational therapy: Ongoing training to adapt to daily tasks, new environments, and evolving physical conditions.
- Emotional support: Long-term counselling or peer support groups may be essential for mental resilience.
- Routine follow-ups: Regular check-ups to monitor overall health and complications related to prosthetic use or posture strain.
Having these long-term needs documented by professionals will help justify additional compensation under CICA’s special expenses category.
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 recognizes 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.
Increasing the Chances of a Successful CICA Claim
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 specializes 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 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 behavior must not have contributed to the injury. In certain circumstances, compensation may still be payable even if the victim’s behavior 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 a unspent criminal record.
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 won’t able to secure any compensation.
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.
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-year for making 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.
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 form CICA scheme.
Animal Attack / Dog Bite: You can’t claim for any animal attack or bog 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.
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 won’t able to 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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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.”
