In the wake of violent crime, victims often find themselves grappling with not only the physical and emotional scars but also financial strains. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a government-funded scheme aimed at compensating victims of violent crime in Great Britain.
In this blog we delve into the eligibility criteria and time limits of the CICA scheme, shedding light on who can apply and what compensation is available:
Who can apply for CICA?
The scheme allows various individuals connected to the crime to seek compensation:
- Victims sustaining physical or psychological injuries directly from a crime.
- Close relatives of someone who passed away because of their injuries.
- Witnesses or immediate responders to the crime scene who subsequently suffer psychological impacts.
- Individuals who have covered funeral expenses.
Eligibility Criteria for the CICA Scheme
It doesn’t cost anything to apply for the CICA scheme, but the incident must have happened in England, Wales or Scotland and have been reported to the police. In more detail, to claim compensation under the scheme, the following criteria need to be met:
- You must have suffered the injury because of a crime of violence.
- The incident must have been reported to the police promptly.
- Applicants must cooperate fully with both the police and CICA.
- Injuries must be serious enough to meet the minimum requirements of the CICA scheme.
What compensation am I entitled to?
The CICA scheme not only addresses the immediate physical and psychological damages but also compensates for broader financial impacts:
- Mental or physical injury following a crime of violence.
- Sexual or physical abuse.
- Loss of earnings – for those unable to work as a direct result of their criminal injuries.
- Bereavement payments – payments for loss of parental services and financial dependency, and funeral payments.
Time limits for applying:
Timely application is crucial and if you were an adult at the time of the criminal incident, then this should not be later than two years after it occurred.
However, this time limit can be extended if the application could not be made earlier due to exceptional circumstances and if the evidence provided in support of the application means that it can be determined without further extensive enquiries by a claims officer.
Victims should not wait until the conclusion of criminal proceedings to apply. CICA does not require a conviction to award compensation; decisions are made based on the balance of probabilities.
If the victim was under 18 at the time of the incident, special provisions are made in the scheme although they should still apply as soon as possible. A person with parental responsibilities can also apply on their behalf.
An application must be received:
- By the person’s 20th birthday, if the incident was reported to the police before their 18th birthday.
- Within two years of the first report to the police, if the incident was reported to the police on or after their 18th birthday.
- They must provide supporting evidence for the claim which will allow the claims officer to decide without further extensive enquiries.
Exceptions on these time limits may be granted under exceptional circumstances and with evidence that shows why the application could not have been made earlier.
At Scott Rees & Co we have extensive experience of supporting those who’ve suffered from abuse. Our service is confidential, and we will try our very best to successfully claim the compensation you are entitled to.
Understanding and navigating the CICA scheme can be a daunting process for victims, which is why our solicitors are available to help and support you in any way possible. Whether you just need more information or would like to schedule a free consultation, please get in touch.
We are here to help you rebuild!