What is the CICA?

Being the victim of a violent crime can have a lasting impact on your health, finances and day-to-day life. While no amount of compensation can undo what has happened, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) exists to provide financial support to innocent victims of violent crime.

Many people are unaware that they may be entitled to compensation even when the offender has never been caught, prosecuted or has no money to pay damages. Understanding how the scheme works and whether you qualify is the first step towards obtaining the support you deserve.

What Is the CICA?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority is a government-run organisation that administers the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme in England, Wales and Scotland.

The scheme provides compensation to people who have suffered physical or psychological injuries as a result of a violent crime. Unlike a personal injury claim against an individual or business, a CICA award/payment is made by the government rather than the offender.

This can be particularly important where:

The offender has not been identified.
The offender has no financial means to pay compensation.
There is no insurance policy available to pursue a claim.
The circumstances do not give rise to a traditional personal injury claim.

How Does the CICA Claims Process Work?

The claims process involves several stages and strict eligibility requirements.

Report the Incident to the Police

In all cases, the crime must be reported to the police as soon as reasonably practicable. The CICA will obtain information directly from the police when reviewing the application.

Submit a Claim

Applications are generally made online via the CICA website. The claimant must provide details of the incident, injuries sustained and any treatment received.

Evidence Is Gathered

The CICA reviews:

Police records
Medical records
Supporting documentation relating to loss of earnings or special expenses where applicable

A Decision is Made

The CICA assesses the claim under a fixed tariff system. Compensation awards are based on the type and severity of injury rather than the individual circumstances of the claimant.

Review or Appeal

If a claimant disagrees with the decision, they may have the right to request a review and, in certain circumstances, appeal to the First-tier Tribunal.

Who Can Claim Compensation Through the CICA?

The scheme is available to many victims of violent crime, including:

Victims of Physical Assault

This may include injuries arising from:

Assaults
Robberies
Violence in public places
Domestic abuse
Knife attacks
Serious physical altercations

Victims of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence

The CICA recognises the significant impact of sexual offences and provides compensation for both physical and psychological injuries resulting from these crimes.

Victims Suffering Psychological Trauma

Not all injuries are visible. Compensation may be available where a violent crime has caused a medically recognised psychiatric injury such as:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Severe anxiety
Clinical depression

Children and Vulnerable Adults

Special provisions exist for children and vulnerable individuals who have experienced abuse or violence.

Bereaved Family Members

Where a violent crime has resulted in a death, certain qualifying relatives may be entitled to claim compensation.

What Can You Claim For?

Compensation awards vary depending on the circumstances and evidence available.

Potential claims may include:

Injury Compensation

Awards are based on a predetermined tariff set by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme.

Loss of Earnings

In some cases, compensation may be available where injuries have prevented a claimant from working for an extended period in excess of 28 weeks. The level of compensation is equal to the current level of Statutory Sick Pay.

Special Expenses

This may include certain necessary costs incurred as a direct result of the injuries, such as specialist care or equipment.

Fatal Injury Awards

Qualifying family members may be entitled to bereavement-related compensation following the death of a loved one caused by violent crime.

Are There Any Time Limits?

Most CICA claims must be made within two years of the date of the incident or if the victim is a minor within two years of turning 18.

However, exceptions can sometimes apply, particularly in cases involving:

Historic sexual abuse
Child abuse claims
Circumstances where exceptional reasons prevented an earlier application

Because strict rules apply, obtaining legal advice as soon as possible is highly recommended.

Why Do CICA Claims Get Rejected?

Applications can be refused for various reasons, including:

Failure to report the incident promptly to the police
Missing the application deadline
Insufficient medical evidence
Lack of cooperation with the police investigation
Criminal convictions that affect eligibility under the scheme

A rejected claim does not always mean the end of the matter. Many decisions can be challenged through the review and appeal process.

How Ison Harrison Can Help

Although individuals can apply directly to the CICA, the process can be complex, particularly where eligibility is disputed or evidence is incomplete.

At Ison Harrison, our experienced solicitors can:

Assess whether you are eligible to claim
Prepare and submit your application
Gather supporting evidence
Challenge unfair decisions
Represent you during reviews and appeals

We understand that victims of violent crime are often dealing with significant physical and emotional challenges. Our role is to guide you through the process with sensitivity, clarity and practical legal advice.

A Real-World Example

A client suffers a serious facial injury after being assaulted outside a venue. The offender is arrested but has no realistic means of paying compensation. Rather than attempting to pursue the individual directly, the victim may be able to secure compensation through the CICA scheme, helping with financial losses and supporting recovery.