The CICA
What does “CICA“
stand for?
“CICA” stands for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, which is a governmental body in the UK responsible for compensating victims of violent crimes.
Operated by the Ministry of Justice, the CICA aims to provide financial compensation to individuals who have suffered physical or psychological harm due to violent acts when they are unable to seek compensation from other sources, such as the perpetrator directly.
They administer the compensation using the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme. The scheme offers support to victims of various forms of violence, including assault, sexual abuse, and other criminal offenses, with the goal of assisting in their recovery process.
The CICA, headquartered in Glasgow, is funded by taxpayers and administers compensation to eligible crime victims under its established schemes. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme was last updated in 2012 and the 2012 Scheme is the current one applied.
Is obtaining compensation straight forward?
In short, no. The process can be challenging for several reasons. While the scheme’s inception in 1965 aimed to provide aid to victims, its rules have evolved over time, becoming more stringent and limiting, in their application.
Often referred to as a “last resort” scheme, it provides some relief, but is characterised by strict rules that may restrict claims that most individuals would consider eligible. We strongly advise consulting with a Solicitor specialising in CICA claims for a free consultation to navigate this complex process effectively.
Why does the CICA enforce strict rules?
In short, it’s primarily driven by financial considerations. Like many governmental bodies, the CICA operates within budget constraints and seeks ways to manage its resources effectively.
However, sometimes it has to be strict, because the rules of the Scheme made by parliament are strict. The current scheme, established in 2012, differs from its predecessors in terms of compensation criteria. For instance, previous schemes, such as those in 2008 and 2001, provided compensation for various injuries like bruising, scars, black eyes, and broken noses. However, the 2012 scheme generally excludes compensation for such injuries, except in cases of domestic violence where injuries accumulate over time.
Is it worthwhile to pursue a claim through the CICA?
It’s advisable to approach the CICA scheme with a clear understanding of your eligibility rather than assuming or hoping you may be eligible.
Consulting with an expert beforehand allows for informed assessment of whether your injuries meet the current CICA criteria and the potential compensation amount you might receive. Our CICA compensation calculator can provide a preliminary estimate of the compensation you may be entitled to claim.
Here are the top reasons why the CICA may reject a claim:
The main reasons why CICA claims are rejected can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. However, some common reasons for claim rejection include:
It’s essential to seek guidance from a solicitor experienced in CICA claims to understand the specific reasons for claim rejection in your case and explore any potential avenues for appeal or redress.
Physical Injury Claims
Sexual Abuse Claims
Sexual Assault Claims
Rape Compensation
SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME
Brain Injury Compensation
Mental Injury
Fatal Claims
Domestic Violence Claims
Start your claim
Our team has been helping victims of crime obtain compensation from the CICA for over 50 years
Freephone 0800 138 6061
Content ‘images’ are used for illustrative purposes only and any person depicted in the Content is a model.
GLP Solicitors are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
SRA Number: 307015
Copyright GLP Solicitors, All rights reserved.