A CICA claim is a type of compensation claim made through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) for victims of violent crime in the UK. You may be eligible if you suffered physical or psychological injuries due to a criminal act and reported the incident to the police. Compensation can help cover your suffering, medical costs, or loss of earnings.
What Is a CICA Claim?
If you’ve been injured as a result of a violent crime in the UK, you might be entitled to financial support through a CICA claim. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a government-run scheme that provides compensation to innocent victims of serious crimes such as assault, abuse, and domestic violence.
The scheme covers both physical and mental injuries and is designed to offer support when no other financial help is available — especially if the offender hasn’t been caught or prosecuted.
You can learn more about the official scheme at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/applying-to-cica
Who Can Make a CICA Compensation Claim?
You may be eligible to make a CICA compensation claim if:
- You were a victim of violent crime in England, Scotland, or Wales
- You reported the incident to the police as soon as reasonably possible
- The crime occurred within the last 2 years (unless special circumstances apply)
- You suffered a serious physical or psychological injury
- You meet the residency or nationality requirements
Even if the perpetrator was never caught or charged, you can still claim compensation.
What Crimes Are Covered Under CICA?
CICA claims typically cover:
- Assaults or attacks
- Sexual abuse or rape
- Domestic violence
- Knife or acid attacks
- Arson
- Threats with weapons
- Fatal crimes (for family members of victims)
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
CICA uses a tariff-based system to determine how much you may receive. This depends on the type and severity of the injury.
Here’s a rough guide:
| Injury Type | Estimated Compensation |
|---|---|
| Minor facial scarring | £1,500 – £3,500 |
| Fractured bones | £2,400 – £11,000 |
| PTSD or severe psychological harm | £6,200 – £27,000 |
| Sexual abuse | £1,000 – £44,000 |
| Loss of earnings (max) | Up to £500,000 |
In some cases, you can also claim:
- Loss of earnings if you’ve been unable to work for 28 weeks or more
- Special expenses like medical care, mobility aids, or home adaptations
Keep in mind, awards are reduced or denied if:
- You have a criminal record
- You delayed reporting the crime
- You didn’t cooperate with the police or CICA
How Long Does a CICA Claim Take?
As per gov.uk, a standard CICA claim can take 12 to 18 months. Complex claims involving:
- Multiple injuries
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Underage victims or abuse cases
may take even longer.
If you need a CICA claim update, you or your solicitor can contact CICA directly for the latest progress.
Tips to Strengthen Your CICA Claim
Here are a few ways to increase your chances of success:
✅ Report the crime to police immediately
✅ Keep medical records and GP reports
✅ Seek mental health support (if traumatised)
✅ Provide witness statements or crime reference number
✅ Use an experienced solicitor who specialises in CICA claims
Need Help with a CICA Claim?
Navigating a CICA compensation claim can feel overwhelming – especially when you’re still dealing with the emotional or physical aftermath of a violent crime. National Claims can connect you with experienced UK solicitors who understand the CICA process and can help you submit the strongest possible application.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Q1. 🔹 What is a CICA claim?
A CICA claim is a request for compensation made to the UK Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority if you’ve been injured due to a violent crime. It offers financial support for pain, suffering, loss of earnings, and other related expenses.
Q2. 🔹 How long does a CICA claim take?
A typical CICA claim can take 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case, police cooperation, and availability of medical evidence. Serious injuries or claims involving minors may take longer.
Q3. 🔹 How do I get a CICA claim update?
You can get a CICA claim update by contacting CICA directly or through your legal representative. If you’re using a solicitor, they can monitor your claim and keep you informed of progress or delays.
Q4. 🔹 How much compensation can I claim through CICA?
Compensation amounts vary but can range from £1,000 to £500,000 depending on the severity of your injuries, loss of earnings, or other special expenses. See the breakdown below.
Q5. 🔹 Can I still claim if the criminal wasn’t caught?
Yes. CICA claims are based on evidence of the crime and your injury, not whether someone was prosecuted. As long as you reported it to the police and cooperated, you’re still eligible.
Why Choose National Claims?
- 📝 Free initial claim assessment
- 👨⚖️ Solicitors with proven experience in CICA cases
- 📞 Ongoing updates and legal support
- 💷 No win, no fee option available
Final Thoughts
A CICA claim can provide the financial relief and validation you deserve after suffering from a violent crime. Whether your injury is physical or psychological, support is available — and you don’t have to face the process alone.
Don’t delay, as the two-year time limit applies in most cases. Acting quickly gives you the best chance of success.
📞 Start Your CICA Claim Today
If you’ve been the victim of a violent crime, you may be entitled to compensation. National Claims can help connect you with the right legal support to start your CICA compensation claim today.
👉 Contact us now to speak with a specialist or begin your claim online.
We’re proud of our excellent customer reviews
We thrive on delivering exceptional service and ensuring our clients’ satisfaction. Don’t just take our word for it. Check out some of our independent reviews to see what our clients have to say.
Excellent
This firm is excellent, they sorted out my car pay out and injury claim very fast, they always communicate with you all the time.
My accident case was dealt with confidence and with great result of the outcome, especially James kept me informed all the time.
I was very impressed at the way my inquiry was treated. I was listened to attentively and everything I needed to know was explained to me.
