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Criminal Injuries Compensation For Loss of Vision

Claim Criminal Injuries Compensation For Loss of Vision

Partial loss of vision can be an equally devastating and disruptive consequence of violent crime, even when some visual capability remains. Impaired sight affects far more than just what a person can physically see—it influences their confidence, sense of security, and ability to participate in everyday life. Whether the damage occurs in one eye or both, the resulting limitations can change how victims work, travel, communicate, and maintain independence. Simple tasks such as reading, navigating familiar places, or using digital devices can suddenly become difficult or dangerous.

Many victims face psychological effects as well, including anxiety, social withdrawal, and depression linked to their altered capabilities and appearance. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) recognises these challenges and provides financial compensation to individuals in the UK who suffer visual impairment caused by a criminal act.

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Understanding Loss of Vision and Common Criminal Causes of Loss of Vision

Violent assaults can cause a broad and complex spectrum of eye injuries and vision impairments, ranging from temporary visual disturbances to permanent blindness. These injuries may occur from direct trauma to the eye itself or indirectly through harm to the optic nerve, surrounding muscles, or the parts of the brain responsible for visual processing. The damage may be immediate or develop gradually as complications such as infection, internal bleeding, or swelling progress over time.

Even injuries that appear minor at first—like scratches, bruising, or light sensitivity—can escalate into more serious conditions if not promptly treated. For many victims, the trauma affects more than eyesight alone; it impairs their ability to interpret spatial information, navigate the world confidently, and engage fully in daily life. Additionally, the psychological toll of dealing with visual disruption—especially when caused by a violent act—can be overwhelming, leading to long-term emotional distress. Common criminal causes include:

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Sight loss is not a uniform experience—its nature and severity can vary depending on the cause, location of the injury, and the individual’s existing vision. Understanding the different types of sight loss injuries helps clarify not only the medical treatment required but also the basis for compensation through the CICA scheme.

  • Partial Sight Loss: This includes conditions where some vision remains in one or both eyes. Victims may experience blurred vision, tunnel vision, or blind spots. Although not total blindness, partial sight loss still significantly affects reading, mobility, and independence.
  • Total Loss of Sight in One Eye: This injury means the affected eye has no useful vision, even with correction. The person may retain full sight in the other eye but still suffer depth perception issues and visual imbalance, which can impact driving, employment, and quality of life.
  • Bilateral Sight Loss: Involves vision impairment in both eyes, ranging from mild vision degradation to complete blindness. Victims may require mobility aids such as guide dogs, long canes, or electronic guidance devices.
  • Cortical Blindness: This occurs when the eyes remain physically intact, but the brain is unable to process visual information due to trauma. It’s often the result of head injuries or damage to the visual cortex.
  • Progressive Vision Loss Due to Trauma: Some injuries do not result in immediate blindness but instead lead to gradual vision deterioration over time. These may still qualify for compensation if properly documented and linked to the original criminal incident.

Each type of injury carries unique functional and emotional challenges. Accurate medical diagnosis and documentation of the condition are essential for securing fair compensation. Understanding these distinctions also helps victims access appropriate rehabilitation and support services tailored to their specific needs.

Eligibility Criteria for CICA Loss of Vision Compensation

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To qualify for compensation, your application must meet several core requirements under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme. These criteria help ensure that the injury stems directly from a reportable and verifiable act of violence:

  • The incident must have occurred in the UK: CICA only covers injuries sustained within England, Scotland, or Wales. Crimes that occur abroad are not eligible, even if you are a UK resident.
  • The crime must have been reported to the police: It is essential that the offence was reported promptly. Delays in reporting may weaken your claim unless there is a valid reason, such as trauma or vulnerability.
  • You must cooperate fully with the investigation: Victims must support the police investigation by giving statements, attending interviews, or following other lawful processes. Non-cooperation could result in claim rejection.
  • The injury must have been caused directly by a violent act: The scheme only covers injuries caused by intentional acts of violence, such as assaults, acid attacks, or criminal use of weapons. Accidents or self-inflicted injuries are excluded.
  • The claim must be filed within two years: Applications should be submitted within two years of the incident. In exceptional cases—such as where the victim is a minor or mentally incapacitated—CICA may extend this deadline.
  • Medical documentation must confirm a permanent injury: You must provide evidence that your vision impairment is ongoing and not temporary, ideally with confirmation from an ophthalmologist or medical specialist.
  • You must not have any disqualifying criminal convictions: If you have unspent convictions, particularly those involving violence, dishonesty, or serious offences, CICA may reduce or deny your award depending on the severity and timing of the conviction.
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How Much Compensation You Can Receive for Loss of Vision?

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 based on the degree of visual impairment, specifically considering how well a person can see with corrective measures such as glasses, contact lenses, or laser surgery. Compensation is determined using the Snellen scale, a standard measurement for visual acuity. The greater the level of vision loss, the higher the award value.

The current compensation tariffs include:

  • Better than 6/12: £1,000 – For minor but persistent impairments that remain even with corrective vision.
  • 6/12: £4,600 – Impairment that affects clarity or depth perception.
  • 6/18: £6,200 – Noticeable visual limitations in daily tasks.
  • 6/24: £13,500 – Significant difficulties with reading, mobility, or recognising faces.
  • 6/36: £16,500 – Substantial impairment requiring adaptive support.
  • 6/60: £19,000 – Severely reduced vision that affects basic functioning.
  • Substantial loss of vision (both eyes) at 6/36 or worse: £55,000 – High-level impairment impacting all areas of life.

CICA also recognises several related conditions:

  • Residual Central Floater(s): £1,500 – Persistent central vision obstructions.
  • Retinal Damage (non-detached): £1,000 (one eye), £3,500 (both eyes)
  • Detached Retina: £3,500 (one eye), £13,500 (both eyes)

Additional compensation may be awarded in cases where partial vision loss is accompanied by related conditions such as:

  • Photophobia (light sensitivity)
  • Double vision or distorted vision
  • Secondary complications from surgeries or delayed treatment

These supplemental awards depend on the documented medical impact and may be considered under CICA’s multiple injury rule, where eligible injuries are assessed in combination to determine a final award.

Additional Compensation for Visual Injury Victims

CICA may also award supplemental compensation depending on the broader impact of your vision-related injury. In many cases, vision loss affects more than just sight—it can disrupt your ability to work, care for yourself, and maintain emotional well-being. Compensation may be granted in the following areas:

  • Loss of Earnings: If your injury has caused long-term or permanent inability to work, you may qualify for compensation for lost income. This may include full or partial earnings over a set period and is typically supported by employment records or medical reports.
  • Special Equipment Costs: Victims who require adaptive devices such as screen readers, magnifiers, braille equipment, or talking software may receive reimbursement, especially if these tools are not fully covered by NHS services.
  • Therapy and Counseling: If your injury has led to mental health challenges—such as trauma, anxiety, depression, or PTSD—CICA may provide compensation for the associated psychological harm. Formal diagnosis and supporting documents from healthcare professionals are usually required.
  • Care or Assistance Needs: If vision impairment limits your ability to perform daily tasks, such as cooking, managing medication, or attending appointments independently, additional compensation may be awarded for care or support services.

Each of these areas requires substantial documentation, including letters from medical specialists, occupational therapists, employers, or social workers. Together, these supplementary awards help ensure that victims receive financial relief not just for the vision loss itself, but for the extended consequences it brings to daily life and independence.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Loss of Vision

Am I eligible to claim CICA compensation for sight loss after a violent crime?

Yes. You may be eligible to claim compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) if you’ve suffered a partial or complete loss of sight in one or both eyes as a direct consequence of a violent crime committed against you in England, Scotland, or Wales. The CICA scheme exists to compensate innocent victims of violent offences who have sustained serious physical or psychological injuries. Eye injuries can result from a wide range of violent incidents such as blunt force trauma to the head or face, acid or chemical attacks, stabbings, gunshot wounds, or any other physical assault that damages your visual system.

The effect of losing your sight—even partially—can be devastating. It may impact your employment, restrict your ability to drive, limit your independence, and seriously affect your emotional and mental well-being. The CICA recognises the profound impact that vision loss can have and provides financial compensation according to the severity and permanence of your condition. Compensation is not just about the injury itself, but also about acknowledging the long-term changes to your life. To be eligible, you must report the crime to the police promptly and provide sufficient medical evidence proving your injury resulted directly from the violent incident.

What types of vision loss does CICA compensate for?

CICA offers compensation for a range of vision impairments caused by violent crime, depending on the severity and permanence of the injury. It is important to understand that CICA assesses visual loss based on corrected vision, which means the level of vision after applying corrective measures like glasses, contact lenses, or surgery.

Qualifying injuries include:

  • Complete blindness in both eyes (no light perception)
  • Loss of one eye (surgically removed or rendered non-functional)
  • Loss of one eye when the other eye is already blind or severely impaired
  • Significant bilateral vision loss, defined as corrected vision of 6/36 or worse in both eyes
  • Partial vision loss, where even after correction, vision remains below normal thresholds

CICA uses the Snellen chart to measure visual acuity, and the assessment includes both central and peripheral vision. Additionally, vision must be permanently impaired to qualify. Temporary or fully recoverable injuries are typically not eligible unless they result in lasting damage.

To receive compensation, the injury must directly result from a violent crime, and sufficient medical documentation must confirm this link. The authority does not compensate for naturally occurring visual conditions or degeneration unless the crime clearly caused the deterioration.

How much compensation does CICA offer for sight loss?

CICA uses a fixed tariff system to calculate the amount of compensation payable, which varies depending on the severity of your vision loss and whether one or both eyes are affected. Below are the current compensation brackets:

  • Total blindness in both eyes – £110,000
  • Loss of one eye where the other eye is already blind – £82,000
  • Significant bilateral visual impairment (6/36 or worse in both eyes) – £55,000
  • Loss of one eye with the other eye having poor vision (not better than 6/36) – £33,000
  • Loss of one eye – £22,000

Partial vision loss (corrected acuity):

  • Better than 6/12 – £1,000
  • Exactly 6/12 – £4,600
  • 6/18 – £6,200
  • 6/24 – £13,500
  • 6/36 – £16,500
  • 6/60 – £19,000

These awards are based solely on the visual impairment. However, if you have sustained additional injuries, you may also be entitled to further compensation. CICA allows for multiple injuries to be claimed within one application, though only the three most serious injuries are considered. If you have accompanying psychological trauma, loss of earnings, or require special expenses, these may be added to your award, increasing your total compensation. In high-value claims involving total blindness, the full award plus added costs and additional damages could be substantial.

What medical evidence do I need to support my claim?

You must submit strong and credible medical evidence to support your claim. This is essential for verifying both the existence and the extent of your injury, as well as its direct connection to the violent crime. The types of medical documentation typically required include:

  • A full report from your ophthalmologist or eye specialist, detailing the diagnosis, prognosis, and visual acuity readings before and after the incident
  • Snellen chart test results and field vision assessments
  • Hospital or emergency department records, especially if you were treated immediately after the incident
  • Surgical reports or discharge summaries, if any procedures were performed on the eyes
  • Notes from optometrists or orthoptists involved in your care or rehabilitation
  • GP letters summarising ongoing symptoms and referrals
  • Any mental health assessments if you are also suffering psychological impacts from the loss of sight

Your medical records should clearly state the permanence of your injury. Temporary injuries are not usually compensated unless they result in permanent damage. Additionally, your evidence must demonstrate that the injury occurred as a direct consequence of the crime you reported. The more detailed and chronological your evidence, the easier it is for CICA to make a favourable decision.

Why does CICA base compensation on corrected vision?

CICA bases its compensation awards on corrected vision to ensure consistency in assessing the actual impact of sight loss. Corrected vision refers to how well you can see with the help of glasses, contact lenses, or surgical correction. This standardised approach allows CICA to evaluate how much of your functional vision has been permanently lost due to the injury.

For example, someone with severely blurred vision that is fully corrected with glasses may not qualify for a high compensation award because their functional vision remains intact. In contrast, if corrective measures do not restore vision above certain thresholds (e.g., worse than 6/36), the impairment is considered significant, and the claimant would be eligible for a higher tariff award. It is therefore critical that your corrected vision is thoroughly tested and accurately recorded in your medical documents.

Is it necessary to report the crime to the police to claim compensation?

Yes, reporting the crime to the police is a mandatory condition of the CICA scheme. You must report the crime as soon as reasonably practicable and cooperate fully with the police investigation. If there was a delay in reporting—due to hospitalisation, trauma, fear of the perpetrator, or other valid reasons—you must provide a clear explanation, ideally supported by evidence.

CICA requires a police report to verify that a violent crime occurred and to assess your role as a victim. If the crime was not reported, or if you failed to cooperate with the investigation (e.g., withdrew your statement or refused to testify), your claim is likely to be denied regardless of the injury.

Can I still claim if the perpetrator was never caught?

Yes. A successful CICA claim does not depend on whether the offender was arrested, identified, or convicted. What matters is that the crime was reported to the police and that there is credible evidence proving that a violent crime took place and caused your injuries. The CICA will assess the police report, your witness statement, any third-party accounts, and your medical records to establish eligibility. Even in cases where the attacker remains unknown or was acquitted in court, you may still receive compensation.

What if I had an eye condition before the crime?

If you had a pre-existing eye condition or partial sight loss before the incident, you can still claim compensation if the violent crime made your condition significantly worse. CICA will assess your baseline vision before the incident using historical medical records and compare it to your current condition. Your award may be adjusted to reflect the portion of vision loss that is directly attributable to the criminal injury.

To support your claim, you must provide both pre-incident and post-incident medical evidence. This can include old prescriptions, optometry records, surgical reports, and letters from specialists that document your visual history. It’s important to clearly demonstrate that the crime had a measurable impact on your sight.

Does partial sight loss qualify for the same level of compensation as total blindness?

No. CICA’s tariff system awards compensation based on the severity of the injury. Total blindness in both eyes receives the highest possible award (£110,000), while lesser degrees of visual impairment receive proportionately lower amounts. Partial sight loss must still be medically significant and have a lasting impact on your life to qualify for compensation.

However, even partial loss of vision can be life-altering, especially if it affects your ability to work, navigate your environment, or perform everyday tasks. The key is to provide strong medical evidence showing the extent and permanence of your vision loss and its impact on your quality of life.

What if the injured eye was my better eye?

If you lose vision in your better eye and the remaining eye already had impaired or limited vision, your functional vision becomes much more restricted. In such cases, CICA may increase your award due to the greater impact on your daily living. For instance, if you lose one eye and the other was already blind, you may be eligible for an £82,000 award.

CICA assesses not just the injury itself but the resulting impact on your overall visual function. It is essential to provide evidence that demonstrates the prior condition of both eyes and how the injury has changed your day-to-day life. Ophthalmology reports detailing both pre- and post-incident visual acuity will be crucial to support your claim.

Can I claim for psychological injuries linked to sight loss?

Yes. Psychological trauma following vision loss is common and can be just as debilitating as the physical injury itself. Conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or social withdrawal often develop after a traumatic incident that results in permanent sight loss.

If you’ve been diagnosed with a recognised psychiatric condition directly related to the injury, you may be eligible for a separate psychological injury award. Supporting documents may include assessments from a psychiatrist or psychologist, therapy notes, and a treatment plan. The more thorough and medically supported your evidence is, the more likely you are to receive an award for mental health impact.

Does CICA pay for lost income due to sight loss?

Yes. If your injury prevents you from working for more than 28 weeks, you may be entitled to a loss of earnings award. CICA calculates this based on your average earnings prior to the injury. To support this claim, you should submit payslips, tax returns, employer statements, and medical evidence showing your inability to work.

Self-employed individuals may provide self-assessment tax returns and letters from accountants. It’s also useful to document any reduced work capacity or job changes resulting from your sight loss. Loss of earnings is assessed separately from the injury award, and it’s important to ensure all necessary documents are submitted.

Can losing my driving ability affect my claim?

While the inability to drive does not result in a standalone award, it may support your overall claim by illustrating how the injury has impacted your independence and lifestyle. Many people rely heavily on driving for work, errands, and social activities, so losing this ability can have far-reaching consequences.

If you’ve had to surrender your driving licence due to your injury, include letters from the DVLA, your employer, or healthcare professionals to demonstrate how this change has affected your day-to-day life. These documents can strengthen your application for psychological injury, special expenses, or loss of earnings.

Can I claim for costs like equipment or care?

Yes. CICA allows for “special expenses”—reasonable costs directly resulting from your injury, provided they are not already covered by public services such as the NHS or local authority support. For sight loss, these expenses might include:

  • Assistive technology (screen readers, magnifiers, text-to-speech devices)
  • Home adaptations (voice-activated lighting, handrails, tactile markers)
  • Transport costs (e.g. taxis to medical appointments)
  • Professional care or support workers
  • Specialist training or rehabilitation programs for the visually impaired

To claim special expenses, you must provide proof that these costs are necessary due to the injury. Keep receipts, invoices, and letters from healthcare professionals recommending the expenses.

What happens if my vision gets worse after I apply?

If your condition deteriorates after submitting your application but before CICA issues a final decision, you should immediately provide updated medical evidence and request a reassessment. If your claim has already been settled, you may be able to apply for a review or submit a new claim under specific conditions.

CICA typically requires that worsening conditions be significant and documented with current medical evidence. Keep up with all follow-up appointments and obtain updated visual acuity results and specialist assessments to reflect any changes in your vision.

Why are sight loss claims sometimes rejected?

Common reasons for rejection include:

  • Failing to report the crime to police promptly
  • Lack of cooperation with law enforcement
  • Insufficient or outdated medical evidence
  • Failure to show that the injury was caused by a violent crime
  • The presence of unspent criminal convictions, which may disqualify you

To avoid rejection, make sure your application is thorough, timely, and well-documented. If your claim is denied, you have the right to request a review or appeal the decision.

Can children apply for compensation?

Yes. If the crime happened when you were under the age of 18, you usually have until your 20th birthday to apply. A parent or guardian can also make the claim on your behalf while you are still a minor.

If the delay in applying was due to trauma, abuse, or being in care, CICA may allow the claim outside the usual timeframe. In such cases, it’s essential to explain the reason for the delay clearly and provide supporting documentation when possible.

How long will the claim process take?

Most CICA claims take between 12 and 18 months to process. The timeframe depends on factors such as:

  • The complexity of the injuries
  • The availability and completeness of evidence
  • Delays in receiving police or medical reports
  • Whether additional information or clarification is requested

Providing comprehensive documents up front and responding quickly to any requests can help speed up the process. If your condition is still evolving, CICA may postpone a decision until your recovery is stable.

Can I challenge a denied or undervalued claim?

Yes. If your claim is denied or you receive an award that seems too low, you can request a review within 56 days of the decision letter. If the review is still unsatisfactory, you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal.

To strengthen your case during a review or appeal, provide updated or additional evidence, expert opinions, and personal statements that clarify the impact of your injuries. A solicitor or legal adviser can guide you through this process and help you present the strongest possible case.

Do I need a solicitor to submit a CICA claim?

No, you do not need a solicitor to submit a CICA claim, but having legal support can be very helpful—especially in complex or high-value cases. A solicitor can assist in preparing your claim, ensuring all evidence is presented clearly, and handling communication with CICA.

They can also represent you during a review or tribunal hearing if necessary. Many firms offer no-win, no-fee arrangements, so you won’t pay unless your claim is successful. While legal representation is not required, it can increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.

Where can I get more guidance on the CICA sight loss tariffs?

You can visit the official CICA website, which contains detailed guidance on the tariff system, eligibility criteria, and application process. The site also provides information about supporting documents, deadlines, and frequently asked questions.

Additionally, consulting with an ophthalmologist can help clarify your visual acuity and ensure your medical records are accurate. Victim support organisations and legal professionals can also assist you in interpreting the CICA rules and building a strong application. The more informed you are, the more likely you are to secure a fair outcome.

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Helping Victims of Violent Crimes To Recover Compensation From CICA

Understanding Loss of Vision and Types of Vision Loss Injuries

Loss of vision from violent crime can present in a wide range of forms, from slight visual disturbances to profound, life-altering blindness. Understanding the different types of vision injuries is key to recognising the impact on the victim’s life and ensuring accurate compensation through the CICA scheme. Each type of visual impairment brings its own challenges, requiring specific support strategies, adaptations, and medical care.

  • Partial Vision Loss: Victims with this form of impairment may retain some visual acuity but experience difficulties such as blurry or distorted vision, reduced peripheral sight, or blind spots. Even minor degradation in sight can make tasks like reading, driving, or recognising faces difficult.
  • Peripheral Vision Loss (Tunnel Vision): This limits the ability to see objects on the sides while central vision remains relatively intact. It affects spatial awareness and makes navigating crowds or traffic particularly dangerous.
  • Central Vision Loss: Caused by damage to the retina or optic nerve, this form affects the ability to focus on detail, making reading, identifying people, or any activity involving close vision nearly impossible.
  • Night Blindness or Light Sensitivity: These sensory disruptions can cause major functional limitations, particularly in low-light environments or bright glare. Victims may struggle with normal indoor lighting or outdoor movement during certain times of day.
  • Total Blindness: In the most severe cases, victims lose all usable vision in one or both eyes. This level of injury usually leads to permanent reliance on assistive tools, mobility training, and care support to regain a measure of independence.
  • Neurological Visual Impairments: When the brain’s visual processing centres are damaged due to trauma—even if the eyes are unharmed—victims may experience visual field loss, hallucinations, or difficulty interpreting what they see (cortical visual impairment).

Proper diagnosis of the type and extent of vision loss helps shape a victim’s rehabilitation plan and supports more accurate CICA assessments. Each form of impairment contributes differently to daily challenges, and clearly documenting these distinctions improves the likelihood of receiving the right level of compensation.

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Medical Documentation and Diagnosis

Strong, comprehensive medical evidence is essential for a successful CICA claim for vision impairment. CICA requires proof that the injury is both permanent and directly linked to a violent criminal act. Your documentation should demonstrate the extent of the damage, how it was diagnosed, and any continuing treatment or prognosis. You will need:

  • Ophthalmologist Reports: A detailed medical assessment from a qualified eye specialist, including measurements of visual acuity, descriptions of structural damage, any diagnosed conditions (e.g., retinal detachment or optic nerve trauma), and an outlook on recovery.
  • Eye Test Results: Formal vision testing results using the Snellen scale or equivalent. These results confirm how well you can see with correction (e.g., glasses or contact lenses), which determines your eligibility for specific tariff bands.
  • Hospital and GP Records: Clinical notes and treatment records from both emergency and follow-up visits that document the initial cause of injury, medical interventions, complications, and long-term treatment plans.
  • Photographic or Scan Evidence: If available, include retinal scans, CT images, or other diagnostics that visually support your claim, especially when showing structural eye damage or damage to brain areas linked to sight.

This documentation not only ensures that your claim meets the specific requirements of the CICA tariff but also helps support any additional claims for psychological or functional impairment linked to the vision loss.

Impact on Daily Function and Lifestyle

Even a moderate loss of vision can have a profound and lasting impact on day-to-day living. Victims often struggle to adapt to a world that is designed for fully sighted individuals, and this adaptation requires significant effort, time, and support. These difficulties extend beyond inconvenience and often result in a fundamental shift in independence, mental well-being, and social participation.

  • Reading and Writing Difficulties: Text may appear distorted or partially obscured, even with corrective tools. Victims may rely on large print, audio content, or screen readers, which slows productivity and limits access to printed materials.
  • Reduced Mobility: Poor vision affects depth perception and spatial awareness, making it hazardous to navigate stairs, crossings, or unfamiliar environments. This can lead to increased dependence on others or the avoidance of travel altogether.
  • Fatigue and Headaches: Straining to focus on tasks or adjusting to changing light conditions can result in chronic fatigue, headaches, and tension, especially when trying to compensate with the unaffected eye.
  • Loss of Confidence in Social Situations: Victims may feel embarrassed when failing to recognise faces or misreading social cues, leading to withdrawal from social events, public speaking, or group activities.

Recognising the extent of lifestyle disruption is crucial when compiling your CICA claim. These effects demonstrate the broader implications of vision loss and may support eligibility for additional compensation or services.

Practical Recovery and Support Services

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for long-term vision loss, but a wide range of support systems and rehabilitation services are available to help victims regain independence and adapt to their new circumstances. Recovery is often a gradual process that includes emotional adjustment, skill development, and assistive technology.

  • Low Vision Clinics: These centres provide tailored assessments by specialists who evaluate the extent of remaining vision and recommend strategies for making the most of it. Services may include advice on lighting, magnification, and daily task management.
  • Assistive Devices: Tools like electronic magnifiers, contrast-enhancing lenses, screen readers, braille displays, and talking watches can be critical for maintaining autonomy at work, school, and home. These devices vary in complexity and are often tailored to the user’s specific needs.
  • Community-Based Support: Charities, local councils, and disability organisations often offer help with practical matters such as meal preparation, transportation, administrative tasks, and peer support. Many services also provide outreach or in-home assistance.
  • Visual Rehabilitation Training: This includes orientation and mobility instruction, daily living skills training, and techniques to optimise the use of residual vision. Specialists may also teach the use of auditory and tactile cues to enhance navigation and interaction.

Incorporating these tools and services into your recovery plan not only boosts independence and confidence but may also strengthen your CICA claim by demonstrating the extent of your need for ongoing support and adaptation.

Additional Losses You Can Claim

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

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

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

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Increasing the Chances of a Successful CICA Claim

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

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

Criminal Injuries Compensation Basic Eligibility Requirements:

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

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

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

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What is Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?

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

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

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

What Payments Are Available From The Scheme?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How is The Compensation Amount Determined?

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

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

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

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

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

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Which Injuries Can Not Be Claimed From CICA?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When CICA Can Reject Your Claim?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Calculate Your Claim Amount

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

How We Can Help With CICA Claim?

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

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

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who Can Apply for CICA Compensation?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Happens if You Have More Than One Injury?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We are here to help!

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

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

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