Call to increase compensation for crime victims for first time in 30 years
For the first time in three decades, there are renewed calls for the UK Government to increase compensation for victims of violent crime under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme. Campaigners, legal professionals and victims’ advocates argue that the current Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme no longer reflects the realities faced by victims, particularly in light of inflation, rising living costs and the long‑term impact of serious physical and psychological injuries.
At GLP Solicitors, we have long supported efforts to ensure that victims of crime receive fair, meaningful compensation. One of the leading voices in this debate is Neil Sugarman, Consultant at GLP Solicitors and former President of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL).
Why CICA compensation levels matter for crime victims
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (CICA) was designed to recognise the harm suffered by victims of violent crime and to provide financial support where offenders cannot be made to pay. However, compensation tariffs have not seen a comprehensive uplift for around 30 years. In real terms, this means awards are now worth significantly less than when they were first introduced.
For many victims, compensation is not about financial gain, but about recognition, dignity and the ability to access support. Awards may help cover costs such as medical treatment, counselling, loss of earnings, or adaptations needed to live independently after life‑changing injuries. When compensation fails to keep pace with modern costs, victims are left struggling at a time when they are most vulnerable.
Neil Sugarman on increasing compensation for victims of violent crime
Neil Sugarman has been at the forefront of calls to reform the compensation system for crime victims, particularly in relation to CICA claims and the long‑standing lack of increases to compensation tariffs. As a highly respected personal injury lawyer and former President of APIL, Neil has consistently championed the rights of injured people and those harmed through no fault of their own.
In recent months, Neil has spoken publicly about the urgent need to review and increase compensation levels under the CICA scheme. He has highlighted how outdated tariffs fail to reflect the severity of injuries, the long‑term psychological trauma experienced by victims, and the financial pressures faced by families trying to rebuild their lives after violent crime.
His expertise and insight have been widely recognised by the media. Neil has been interviewed by several major publications, including the Manchester Evening News, Morning Star, and the Derby Telegraph, where he has explained why reform is long overdue and what meaningful change could look like for victims across the UK.
Why the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme needs reform
Critics of the current CICA compensation scheme argue that the lack of regular reviews has created a system that no longer meets its original purpose. While other forms of compensation and benefits have been adjusted over time, crime victims have effectively been left behind.
Neil Sugarman and other legal experts are calling for:
- A comprehensive review of CICA compensation tariffs
- Increases that reflect inflation and modern living costs
- Greater recognition of psychological injuries and long-term trauma
- A fairer, more victim centred approach to decision making
Such changes, they argue, would send a clear message that victims of crime are valued and supported by the justice system.
GLP Solicitors’ expertise in CICA and criminal injury claims
GLP Solicitors has extensive experience in advising and representing victims of violent crime, including CICA claims for criminal injuries compensation. We understand how complex and distressing the process can be, particularly for those already dealing with the aftermath of serious injury or trauma.
Through the work of professionals like Neil Sugarman, GLP Solicitors remains committed not only to supporting individual clients, but also to contributing to wider discussions about legal reform and access to justice.
The future of compensation for crime victims in the UK
The call to increase compensation for crime victims for the first time in 30 years marks an important moment. If acted upon, it could lead to meaningful improvements for thousands of people affected by violent crime each year.
As the debate continues, voices like Neil Sugarman’s will remain crucial in ensuring that victims’ experiences are heard and that reform is guided by expertise, fairness and compassion.
If you would like advice about making a criminal injuries compensation claim or submitting a CICA application, GLP Solicitors is here to help.