cica solicitors
Criminal Injuries Compensation For Tongue Injuries

Claim Criminal Injuries Compensation For Tongue Injuries

Tongue injuries sustained during a violent crime can have serious consequences for speech, swallowing, and overall oral function. These injuries can be particularly distressing due to their visible, painful, and often disabling nature. In some cases, victims may suffer from partial or full loss of tongue tissue, impaired or lost speech, and long-term challenges with eating and communicating.

If your tongue injury was the result of an assault or other violent act, you may be eligible to claim compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). CICA offers financial awards to victims of violent crime in England, Scotland, and Wales, including those who suffer oral and speech-related injuries. Compensation amounts are determined by a tariff system based on the severity and lasting impact of the injury.

Request a Callback

“No Win, No Fee”

Criminal Injuries Compensation Solicitors

WhatsApp

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

Understanding the Tongue Injuries and various Tongue Injuries in Violent Incidents

The tongue is a crucial organ that plays an essential role in several key bodily functions, including speaking, tasting, chewing, swallowing, and even maintaining oral health. Any trauma to the tongue can have immediate and long-lasting effects, particularly when the damage interferes with these basic abilities. For individuals who rely on verbal communication for their work or personal life, a tongue injury can be particularly debilitating.

When a person suffers a tongue injury due to a violent crime, the impact is often complex and multifaceted. Facial trauma during an assault—whether from a sharp weapon, a punch, or a blunt object—can lead to significant damage that requires surgical treatment and extensive rehabilitation. In more severe cases, the injury can cause permanent disability, drastically reducing a person’s quality of life. Examples of tongue injuries sustained through violent attacks include:

Physical criminal injuries compensation claims CICA

Looking for some help?

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback
  • Lacerations or deep tissue cuts: Often caused by sharp instruments or broken objects during an assault, these injuries may require stitches or surgery and can lead to infection, scarring, and ongoing pain.
  • Partial loss of tongue tissue: Stabbing, biting during a struggle, or tearing from blunt trauma can lead to a section of the tongue being damaged or severed, affecting speech and eating.
  • Restricted tongue movement: Nerve or muscle damage can lead to limited control over the tongue, impacting articulation, chewing, and swallowing.
  • Complete loss of speech: Severe tongue trauma or extensive scarring can prevent effective communication altogether, requiring speech therapy or assistive technology.
  • Total loss of the tongue: In extreme cases, especially those involving surgical removal due to injury severity, the individual may be left permanently unable to speak or eat normally.

These injuries often go hand-in-hand with psychological consequences. Survivors may develop low self-esteem, avoid social interactions, or experience depression and anxiety. The visibility of the injury and its impact on everyday life—especially communication—can cause long-term emotional trauma. For many, returning to work or normal routines becomes a major challenge due to discomfort, embarrassment, or the need for continuous therapy.

physical criminal Injuries compensation claims cica

Looking for some help?

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Eligibility Criteria to Make a CICA Claim for Tongue Injuries

To qualify for a CICA compensation claim for a tongue injury, the injury must have been caused by a deliberate and unlawful act of violence. The scheme is designed to support victims who have suffered serious harm as a result of criminal activity, and it’s crucial that certain conditions are met to ensure eligibility. Failing to meet these criteria can result in your claim being denied, regardless of the injury’s severity.

One of the first and most important requirements is that the crime must be reported to the police within a reasonable timeframe. You must also fully cooperate with any investigations related to the incident. This cooperation helps verify that the incident occurred and that your claim is credible. Core eligibility requirements include:

  • Jurisdiction: The crime must have occurred in England, Scotland, or Wales.
  • Violence-related injury: The tongue injury must have resulted directly from a violent criminal act, such as an assault, mugging, or another form of intentional harm.
  • Timely police report: The crime should be reported to law enforcement promptly. Delays without a valid explanation may harm your case.
  • Claim time limit: The application must be submitted within two years from the date of the incident. CICA may consider exceptions in cases involving children or mental health conditions.
  • Victim conduct: You must not have provoked the incident or participated in any illegal activity that contributed to the violence.
  • Medical evidence: Detailed medical records are essential to confirm the nature, treatment, and prognosis of the tongue injury.

Additionally, CICA will review your criminal record. Applicants with unspent convictions may face a reduced award or disqualification, depending on the nature of those convictions.

Meeting these criteria strengthens your application and helps CICA assess the full scope and legitimacy of your claim. If you are unsure about your eligibility, it’s advisable to consult a legal adviser or a victim support service experienced with CICA claims.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

How Much Compensation You Can Receive for Tongue Injuries?

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 compensation is calculated according to the severity, permanence, and functional impact of the injury. Tongue injuries are recognised under the CICA tariff as serious injuries due to their effect on essential functions such as speech, eating, and social interaction. The scheme uses fixed compensation brackets, with awards increasing according to the level of speech impairment or extent of tissue loss.

Current CICA compensation tariffs for tongue injuries include:

  • £3,500 (A5): Moderate speech impairment – where the victim retains most speech ability but struggles with clarity or articulation.
  • £11,000 (A8): Serious speech impairment – a more substantial impact on communication that requires therapy and may limit personal or professional interactions.
  • £19,000 (A11): Severe speech impairment – where speech is heavily impaired, requiring assistive devices or extensive therapy.
  • £33,000 (A14): Permanent loss of speech – awarded when a victim is left entirely unable to communicate verbally.
  • £44,000 (A15): Loss of the tongue – the most severe form of injury involving full or functional loss of the tongue.

These figures represent the primary compensation available under the scheme, acknowledging not only the physical trauma but also the daily struggles and emotional distress linked to communication difficulties.

Additional Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Beyond the core tariff award, CICA may provide additional compensation for victims whose injuries result in significant personal or financial losses. These are known as special expenses and are intended to help cover out-of-pocket costs linked directly to your injury. You may be able to claim for:

  • Loss of earnings: If your tongue injury prevents you from working for 28 consecutive weeks or longer, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you have lost. This can include wages during your recovery period and, in some cases, future lost earnings if the injury causes long-term or permanent work limitations.
  • Private speech therapy or specialist medical care: If such services are not available through the NHS or are urgently needed for recovery, you can claim the cost of private treatments. This includes sessions with speech therapists, oral specialists, and any custom treatment plans designed to restore communication or eating function.
  • Travel expenses: Any travel required for medical treatment, follow-up consultations, or therapy may be reimbursed. This includes costs such as fuel, public transport fares, taxi journeys, and parking fees, especially when frequent visits are required.
  • Dietary support or assistive devices: Many victims with tongue injuries struggle with chewing or swallowing. In such cases, CICA allows claims for nutrition-related items like liquid diets, fortified foods, feeding aids, and specially adapted cutlery that helps maintain adequate nutrition and independence.
  • Communication aids or home adaptations: In more severe cases, claimants may require assistive technology to speak or modified kitchen tools to help with food preparation and intake. Equipment such as text-to-speech devices or ergonomic eating utensils may be covered under special expenses if medically justified.

To claim these additional amounts, you must provide supporting evidence such as receipts, prescriptions, and written recommendations from medical professionals. These expenses are assessed separately from the main injury tariff and can significantly increase the total amount of compensation awarded.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Tongue Injuries

Can I claim CICA compensation if I suffered tongue damage or loss due to a violent crime?

Yes, you can claim compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) if you have suffered any form of tongue injury or speech impairment caused by a violent crime in England, Scotland, or Wales. This includes partial or total loss of the tongue, impaired or permanent loss of speech, and any related functional disability. These injuries are often caused by violent assaults involving knives, blunt force trauma, firearms, or even chemical attacks. The physical consequences can be devastating—impacting essential activities such as speaking, eating, swallowing, and even breathing. The emotional toll is also considerable, as speech loss or facial trauma often leads to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. To qualify, the crime must have been reported to the police without unreasonable delay, and you must fully cooperate with any investigations. Detailed medical evidence confirming the injury is essential to support your claim.

What types of tongue and speech injuries qualify for CICA compensation?

CICA provides compensation for a wide range of tongue and speech-related injuries, including but not limited to:

  • Partial or complete loss of the tongue
  • Impaired speech due to trauma, surgery, or nerve damage
  • Permanent or severe speech loss from oral or facial injury
  • To qualify, the injury must be permanent or long-term and cause a disabling effect on daily life. This means the injury significantly interferes with communication, eating, working, or engaging in normal social or family life. Minor lacerations or temporary swelling of the tongue that resolve within weeks usually do not meet the threshold.

What are the CICA compensation tariffs for tongue injuries and speech loss?

The CICA tariff includes specific awards for varying levels of severity:

  • Impaired speech (moderate): £3,500 – For injuries that cause speech disruption such as a lisp or stuttering that limits clarity.
  • Impaired speech (serious): £11,000 – For injuries leading to significant and lasting speech dysfunction that affects work or relationships.
  • Impaired speech (severe): £19,000 – For profound, near-complete disruption of speech, even with assistive aids.
  • Permanent loss of speech: £33,000 – For cases where the victim is no longer able to speak due to injury.
  • Loss of tongue: £44,000 – For complete loss or removal of the tongue, with significant impairment to speech, eating, and quality of life.

Each award reflects the injury’s severity, permanence, and impact on everyday activities.

How is impaired speech assessed for a CICA claim?

Impaired speech is evaluated through specialist assessments from professionals such as speech and language therapists, oral surgeons, or ENT specialists. These evaluations consider the following:

  • Clarity and fluency of your speech
  • Dependency on speech therapy or communication aids
  • Ability to engage in social, educational, or professional interactions
  • Frequency and duration of therapy sessions
  • Severity is categorised into moderate, serious, and severe based on how much your ability to speak has been compromised and whether the condition is expected to improve.

What qualifies as permanent loss of speech?

Permanent loss of speech refers to the complete inability to speak, either due to physical damage or neurological impairment, where recovery is unlikely. This may result from:

  • Destruction or surgical removal of key speech organs (e.g., tongue or larynx)
  • Brain injury affecting speech centres
  • Extensive nerve or muscle damage impairing motor control of the mouth or throat
  • Medical reports from speech therapists and ENT specialists should clearly state that speech function cannot be restored and that attempts at therapy have not improved outcomes. Assistive device use may further support the claim.

What does 'loss of tongue' mean in the CICA tariff?

Under the CICA tariff, loss of tongue typically means total or near-total removal of the tongue resulting in extreme and irreversible speech and eating impairments. It also includes trauma where the tongue is so badly damaged that it cannot function. Consequences include:

  • Loss of speech
  • Inability to chew or swallow normally
  • Altered taste sensation
  • CICA requires documentation including hospital discharge letters, surgery records, and long-term rehabilitation outcomes to support this type of claim.

Do I need a specialist diagnosis to support my tongue or speech injury claim?

Yes. CICA places a strong emphasis on medical evidence from appropriately qualified professionals. Acceptable forms of documentation include:

  • Speech and language therapy reports
  • ENT or oral and maxillofacial surgery notes
  • Neurologist or rehabilitation consultant summaries
  • These reports should specify the type of injury, confirm its permanence or likelihood of improvement, and outline the functional limitations it has caused.

Can I claim if I developed long-term speech issues due to psychological trauma?

Yes, but the claim will fall under the “mental injury” category instead of a physical injury. Psychological trauma can lead to disorders like selective mutism, conversion disorder, or speech phobia, especially after experiencing or witnessing severe violence. However, you must:

  • Receive a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist
  • Show that the mental injury lasted at least six weeks and caused substantial functional limitations
  • CICA does not accept claims for short-term stress, fear, or anxiety without a recognised medical diagnosis.

Can I receive compensation if my injury affects eating or swallowing?

Yes. If the injury to your tongue or speech structures also affects your ability to eat or swallow, this increases the overall severity of your condition and supports a higher award. Functional impairments such as difficulty consuming solids, reliance on soft foods or liquids, or use of feeding aids can all be considered. You should include:

  • Dietitian reports
  • Speech and language therapist documentation
  • Evidence of weight loss or nutritional deficiency caused by the injury
  • These help CICA understand the full scope of your disability.

How does CICA determine if my injury is moderate, serious, or severe?

CICA relies on a combination of medical records and real-life impact to determine severity. Some key criteria include:

  • Duration and frequency of therapy
  • Impact on employment or education
  • Degree of communication breakdown in everyday settings
  • Whether the injury is expected to improve or is permanent
  • Necessity for assistive communication or dietary modifications
  • Well-documented assessments that align with the injury classification (moderate, serious, severe) will help ensure accurate compensation.

What if I need a communication device due to my injury?

Using a communication aid—such as an app, text-to-speech device, or symbol board—demonstrates a high level of functional impairment. This may help you qualify for the severe speech impairment or loss of speech tariff, especially if your natural speech is unintelligible or non-existent. Costs related to these aids may also be claimed under special expenses if you had to purchase them privately. Documentation should show the medical necessity and daily use of the device.

Can I still apply for compensation if I had speech difficulties before the incident?

Yes, but CICA will assess how the crime worsened your pre-existing condition. If the injury led to a substantial decline in your ability to speak or function, a partial award may still be available. You’ll need comparative medical reports that show your baseline speech ability before the incident and how it has changed since. The goal is to prove that the crime either triggered new symptoms or aggravated existing ones in a significant way.

Do I need to have had surgery to qualify for a speech or tongue injury claim?

No. Surgery is not a requirement. While undergoing surgery often suggests a serious injury, CICA’s focus is on the outcome—specifically the long-term effects on speech, eating, and daily function. Even if you didn’t have surgery, you can still be compensated if medical reports confirm a permanent or disabling impairment. Include all assessments, therapies, and treatment summaries as evidence.

Can children claim for tongue injuries or loss of speech?

Yes. Children are entitled to compensation through CICA if they’ve suffered tongue or speech injuries due to violence or abuse. A parent or legal guardian can submit a claim on the child’s behalf. If the claim is not submitted during childhood, the individual has until their 20th birthday to apply. School records, child psychologist reports, and speech therapist assessments are valuable evidence. Early intervention and documentation are crucial, as communication impairments can significantly impact learning and social development.

How long does it take to process a claim for tongue or speech injuries?

The processing timeline typically ranges from 6 to 12 months but may be longer if your injury is complex or your evidence is incomplete. Delays often occur if CICA needs additional medical reports or if further assessments are recommended. To help speed up your claim:

  • Submit your application with all available medical records
  • Provide detailed police reports and witness statements
  • Respond promptly to CICA’s requests for more information
  • In severe injury cases, such as loss of speech or tongue, CICA may also commission an independent medical evaluation before making a final decision.

What special expenses can I claim for a tongue or speech injury?

Special expenses are additional financial costs that arise directly due to your injury and are not already covered by the NHS or other public support services. If your tongue or speech-related injury has created long-term functional limitations—such as the inability to communicate clearly or difficulties eating—you may qualify for compensation under this category. Eligible special expenses include:

  • Communication aids, such as text-to-speech devices or electronic voice synthesizers, essential for those with impaired or lost speech.
  • Feeding tools or nutritional supplements, for those with difficulty swallowing or chewing.
  • Home assistance or carers, especially if your injury limits your ability to manage basic activities of daily living.
  • Transport costs for travelling to and from rehabilitation or speech therapy appointments when public transport is impractical due to the injury.

All claims must be backed by receipts, medical recommendations, and a clear link to the injury sustained. CICA will only reimburse costs that are necessary, injury-specific, and unavailable through public services.

Can I claim loss of earnings due to my speech impairment?

Yes. If your ability to work has been affected by your injury and you’ve been unable to return to employment for a continuous period of 28 weeks or more, you may qualify for a loss of earnings award. Speech impairments, especially those that severely limit communication, can make it difficult to perform roles that involve speaking with customers, managing staff, attending meetings, or even performing administrative duties. To support your claim, you will need:

  • Medical confirmation from specialists that your injury prevents you from working
  • Documentation of employment, such as payslips, tax returns, or P60s
  • Statements from employers, confirming how your role has been affected and whether adjustments were attempted or not possible
  • CICA pays loss of earnings at a set rate unless exceptional financial circumstances apply. The longer your speech impairment affects your employment, the more substantial your compensation could be.

Can I include psychological trauma from my injury in the claim?

Yes. Many victims who suffer from severe tongue or speech-related injuries also experience emotional and psychological consequences. Losing the ability to communicate clearly can lead to anxiety, isolation, depression, or even PTSD, particularly when speech is essential to personal identity or career. You may claim separately under the category of mental injury if:

  • You have a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist
  • The mental injury is considered disabling, lasting 6 weeks or more and affecting day-to-day functioning
  • Make sure to include mental health assessments, records of psychological therapy or medication, and statements showing how your emotional health has been affected by the speech loss.

Can I claim if I was injured while protecting someone else and sustained a speech-related injury?

Yes. CICA recognises acts of bravery. If you suffered a tongue or speech-related injury while protecting another person during a violent crime—for example, stepping in to defend someone from assault—you may still qualify for compensation. Even if you were not the intended target of the attack, CICA considers injuries sustained while performing a selfless or protective act to be eligible. To support your claim, include:

  • Police reports detailing your role in the incident
  • Witness statements supporting your actions
  • Any commendation or recognition from authorities
  • CICA may even view your actions favourably when assessing your overall eligibility and cooperation.

Can I still apply if the crime happened a long time ago?

Normally, CICA requires claims to be submitted within two years from the date of the incident. However, there are exceptions. If you were under 18 at the time or unable to apply earlier due to trauma, disability, or mental health issues, CICA may accept a late application. This is especially relevant in cases of historical abuse or violent crimes where the emotional impact delayed your ability to come forward. To be considered outside the standard window:

  • Include an explanation of the delay
  • Submit supporting documentation from medical or psychological professionals
  • Ensure the crime was reported to the police as soon as reasonably practicable
  • CICA treats late applications on a case-by-case basis, especially where justice or fairness would be served by allowing the claim.

What if the offender was never convicted or identified?

A conviction or arrest is not required to succeed in a CICA claim. CICA uses the civil standard of proof, meaning it must be more likely than not that a violent crime occurred. As long as there is sufficient evidence that:

  • You were the victim of a violent crime
  • The incident was reported to the police
  • You cooperated fully with any investigation
  • Your injuries are supported by medical records
  • Then your claim may still be approved. Lack of prosecution does not disqualify a claim, as long as the facts of the case are well documented and credible.

Can tongue injuries affect eligibility for other forms of support?

Yes. If your speech or tongue injury causes long-term disability or care needs, you may also be entitled to other forms of support outside of CICA. These include:

  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – for adults who need help with daily tasks or mobility
  • Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – for children under 16 with additional care needs
  • Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) – if your injury prevents you from working
  • Specialist NHS services – such as speech therapy, dietetics, or communication aids

To avoid your compensation affecting these benefits, consider setting up a Personal Injury Trust. This ensures that the award isn’t counted against your eligibility for means-tested benefits.

How can I prove that my speech or tongue injury has impaired my quality of life?

CICA considers not just the clinical diagnosis but also how your injury limits your everyday activities. To demonstrate impact on your quality of life:

  • Submit detailed medical reports showing functional limitations
  • Provide therapy reports highlighting lack of improvement
  • Include personal statements explaining your daily struggles (e.g., avoiding social settings, using alternative communication methods, eating restrictions)
  • Attach letters from family, friends, or employers describing the change in your ability to interact or work
  • A clear narrative backed by third-party observations and clinical assessments can be very persuasive.

Can children claim compensation for permanent speech or tongue loss?

Yes. Children are eligible for CICA compensation if they suffer a speech-related injury due to a violent crime. A parent or legal guardian can apply on their behalf, or the child can apply themselves once they reach 18 (up to their 20th birthday). These cases often require:

  • Paediatric specialist reports confirming injury severity
  • School records or SEN (Special Educational Needs) assessments documenting educational impact
  • Speech and language therapist reports showing treatment history and communication barriers
  • As childhood injuries may affect long-term development, CICA takes into account the future impact on learning, social skills, and self-esteem.

What’s the best way to maximise my compensation for a tongue or speech injury through CICA?

To secure the highest possible award for a speech or tongue-related injury, it’s essential to prepare a comprehensive and well-evidenced claim. Follow these steps:

  • Report the incident promptly and obtain a police crime reference number
  • Submit clear, specialist medical evidence from speech therapists, ENT surgeons, and psychologists
  • Demonstrate the impact on daily life, employment, and communication
  • Include supporting documents such as therapy plans, employer statements, and personal diaries
  • Claim special expenses and loss of earnings where applicable
  • Consider getting professional advice from legal experts or victim support services
  • The more robust and well-documented your application, the greater your chances of receiving the correct compensation tariff and full recognition of your suffering and loss.
0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Expert Criminal Injury Solicitor

Helping Victims of Violent Crimes To Recover Compensation From CICA

Understanding Tongue Injuries and Different Types of Tongue Injuries

Violent crime can cause a variety of serious tongue injuries that often result in significant and long-term effects on a victim’s quality of life. As a core part of the oral cavity, the tongue is essential for many functions including speech articulation, chewing, tasting, swallowing, and oral hygiene maintenance. When damaged, this delicate organ can impair communication, nutrition, and emotional wellbeing, creating a complex set of challenges that go far beyond the physical wound.

Injuries to the tongue from violent assaults may stem from being struck in the face, stabbed, bitten during a struggle, or subjected to blunt force trauma. These incidents can result in visible damage as well as internal complications, such as nerve or muscle impairment, that impact mobility and sensation.

Types of tongue injuries from violent crime may include:

  • Deep lacerations or cuts: These injuries are typically caused by sharp instruments like knives or broken glass used during a violent assault. Such wounds can be extensive and often require emergency medical treatment including stitches or surgical intervention. In many cases, the resulting scarring is permanent and may affect both the function and appearance of the tongue.
  • Muscle or nerve damage: When the underlying muscle tissues or nerves of the tongue are affected, it can result in impaired motor control. This may lead to slurred or slowed speech, reduced ability to chew and manipulate food, and compromised oral hygiene due to limited movement. Nerve damage can also cause tingling, numbness, or complete loss of sensation in parts of the tongue.
  • Partial or complete loss of the tongue: In the most severe assaults, part or all of the tongue may be severed or require surgical removal due to irreversible damage. This leads to permanent speech loss or major impairment, difficulty eating and drinking, and the necessity of assistive devices for communication. Such injuries are considered among the most serious under the CICA tariff.
  • Tissue deformities or extensive scarring: Physical deformities resulting from deep trauma or surgery can distort the tongue’s shape and function. This may cause discomfort during speaking and eating and lead to reduced clarity in communication, often requiring long-term speech therapy to manage the effects.
  • Chronic pain or functional difficulties: Some victims experience prolonged pain, burning sensations, or hypersensitivity in the tongue that interferes with daily activities. Persistent difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and the inability to enjoy or consume certain foods can significantly reduce quality of life and may require dietary modifications or professional support.

These injuries often demand a comprehensive treatment plan that includes surgical intervention, ongoing speech and physical therapy, and support from psychological services. Rehabilitative care may extend over months or even years, depending on the extent of the damage, highlighting the importance of documenting every aspect of your injury for a complete and compelling CICA claim.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Evidence Required for a CICA Tongue Injury Claim

To succeed with your CICA claim, it is vital to submit a comprehensive body of evidence that proves the tongue injury was a direct result of a violent criminal act. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority bases their assessment not just on the occurrence of the incident, but on the extent of the injuries and their long-term impact on your daily life. Incomplete or weak documentation is one of the most common reasons for claims being delayed or rejected.

Your goal should be to clearly demonstrate the link between the assault and your medical condition, and to provide detailed proof of the physical, emotional, and financial consequences you’ve experienced. Every element of your case should be supported with dated and reliable documents. Key evidence includes:

  • Police report and crime reference number: This is critical in showing that the crime was reported and officially recognised. Ensure the details match your account of the incident.
  • Medical records: You must include GP reports, hospital discharge letters, treatment summaries, and surgical notes (if applicable). These documents should outline the diagnosis, treatment course, prognosis, and any ongoing health issues.
  • Specialist evaluations: Assessments from ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctors, maxillofacial surgeons, speech and language therapists, or oral health specialists are highly valuable. They provide expert insight into how the injury has affected your ability to speak, eat, and function.
  • Personal statement: Your own account of the incident and how it has affected your day-to-day life, including communication difficulties, emotional distress, dietary changes, and social or professional limitations.
  • Mental health assessments: If the trauma has resulted in psychological effects like depression, anxiety, or PTSD, include reports from psychologists, psychiatrists, or counsellors. Mental health documentation strengthens your case for additional compensation.

All documentation should be up-to-date, clearly labelled, and organised chronologically where possible. Submitting strong evidence not only speeds up the claims process but also ensures you receive compensation that accurately reflects the severity and impact of your injury.

Additional Compensation: Special Expenses and Losses

Beyond the standard tariff compensation, you may be eligible for additional financial help if your tongue injury has caused wider disruption to your life. You can claim for special expenses such as:

  • Loss of earnings: If your tongue injury prevents you from working for 28 consecutive weeks or longer, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you have lost. This can include wages during your recovery period and, in some cases, future lost earnings if the injury causes long-term or permanent work limitations.
  • Private speech therapy or specialist medical care: If such services are not available through the NHS or are urgently needed for recovery, you can claim the cost of private treatments. This includes sessions with speech therapists, oral specialists, and any custom treatment plans designed to restore communication or eating function.
  • Travel expenses: Any travel required for medical treatment, follow-up consultations, or therapy may be reimbursed. This includes costs such as fuel, public transport fares, taxi journeys, and parking fees, especially when frequent visits are required.
  • Dietary support or assistive devices: Many victims with tongue injuries struggle with chewing or swallowing. In such cases, CICA allows claims for nutrition-related items like liquid diets, fortified foods, feeding aids, and specially adapted cutlery that helps maintain adequate nutrition and independence.
  • Communication aids or home adaptations: In more severe cases, claimants may require assistive technology to speak or modified kitchen tools to help with food preparation and intake. Equipment such as text-to-speech devices or ergonomic eating utensils may be covered under special expenses if medically justified.

Make sure to retain receipts, prescriptions, and supporting letters from medical professionals when submitting a special expenses claim.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Psychological and Emotional Impact of Tongue Injuries

Injuries affecting both speech and appearance can have devastating psychological effects that are often as debilitating as the physical harm itself. For many victims of violent crime, the trauma of losing the ability to speak clearly or experiencing visible disfigurement from tongue injuries leads to a profound sense of vulnerability and emotional isolation. The inability to communicate comfortably, combined with fears of being misunderstood or judged, can lead to long-term psychological struggles.

Professionals whose careers depend on effective verbal communication—such as teachers, customer service representatives, or public speakers—may find themselves unable to continue in their roles. This sudden loss of identity and income further compounds the emotional impact of the injury. Common psychological effects of tongue injuries include:

  • Loss of self-esteem and confidence: Victims may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their altered speech, avoiding interactions that once felt normal.
  • Social withdrawal and isolation: Difficulty speaking can make individuals hesitant to participate in conversations, group settings, or public environments, which often leads to loneliness.
  • Persistent anxiety and clinical depression: Emotional distress can stem from the trauma of the incident, the challenges of recovery, and fear of being permanently affected.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Especially when the injury results from a highly violent assault, recurring flashbacks, sleep disturbances, and hypervigilance may develop.

CICA recognises the psychological toll that physical trauma can have. Including documentation such as therapy records, psychiatric evaluations, or letters from mental health professionals in your claim can greatly strengthen your application. This holistic approach ensures that the full scope of harm—both physical and emotional—is acknowledged, potentially resulting in higher compensation and better access to treatment support.

Long-Term Recovery and Rehabilitation Needs

Tongue injuries can require extensive and ongoing care, especially when they involve nerve damage, tissue loss, or permanent speech impairment. The complexity of these injuries often demands a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, and recovery may span months or even years. Victims may find themselves facing not only physical limitations but also emotional and psychological challenges that require long-term support.

Rehabilitation efforts aim not only to restore as much function as possible but also to help victims adapt to a new way of life. This includes learning alternative communication methods, coping with dietary restrictions, and managing the psychological impact of their trauma. Each element of the rehabilitation journey should be documented and included in your CICA application to ensure your claim reflects the full scope of the injury’s impact. Ongoing rehabilitation may include:

  • Reconstructive surgery to restore partial function: This may involve procedures to repair muscle and nerve tissue, improve tongue mobility, or reduce scarring that impairs function or causes discomfort.
  • Long-term speech therapy: Many victims require weekly or biweekly sessions with speech and language therapists to regain or improve speech clarity, articulation, and confidence.
  • Nutritional counselling or support for swallowing difficulties: Dietary plans, nutritional supplements, or feeding strategies may be necessary to ensure adequate nutrition, especially for those who struggle with chewing or swallowing.
  • Psychological therapy for trauma recovery: Counselling or psychological support helps victims process the trauma, cope with lifestyle changes, and rebuild their mental health.

All rehabilitation needs should be supported by professional medical records, therapy notes, or referrals. Including this evidence can significantly strengthen your CICA claim and ensure you receive fair compensation for your ongoing care and recovery.

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Additional Losses You Can Claim

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

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

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

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

Increasing the Chances of a Successful CICA Claim

physical criminal Injuries compensation claims cica

Looking for some help?

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

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

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

Criminal Injuries Compensation Basic Eligibility Requirements:

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

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

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

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

What is Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?

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

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

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

What Payments Are Available From The Scheme?

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

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

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

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How is The Compensation Amount Determined?

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

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

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

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

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

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Which Injuries Can Not Be Claimed From CICA?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When CICA Can Reject Your Claim?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Calculate Your Claim Amount

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

How We Can Help With CICA Claim?

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

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

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who Can Apply for CICA Compensation?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Happens if You Have More Than One Injury?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We are here to help!

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

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

0333 996 9988
Request a Callback

“No Win, No Fee”

Criminal Injuries Compensation Solicitors

WhatsApp

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

criminal injuries compensation
lexcel logo

Sexual Violence Claims

Other Injuries Claims

CICA Claim Calculators

Company

Other CICA Claim Categories

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

© 2026 • Criminal Injury Solicitors • All Rights Reserved.

info@criminalinjurysolicitor.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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