If you have been physically or mentally injured as the victim of a violent crime in England, Scotland, or Wales, you may be entitled to compensation through a government-funded scheme that many people do not know exists. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority — commonly known as CICA — provides financial awards to blameless victims of crime, even when the perpetrator cannot be identified or has no means to pay.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about making a CICA claim, from understanding eligibility requirements to navigating the application process and maximising your potential award.

What is the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority is an executive agency sponsored by the Ministry of Justice. Established to provide financial recognition for victims of violent crime, CICA administers the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme 2012, which sets out the rules governing who can claim and how much compensation they may receive.

CICA processes approximately 30,000 to 40,000 applications annually and spends around £150 million each year compensating crime victims. The maximum award available under the current scheme is £500,000, though most awards fall below this figure based on the tariff system used to calculate payments.

Crimes Covered by the CICA Scheme

CICA compensation covers injuries resulting from crimes of violence, including physical attacks intended to cause harm, sexual assaults and abuse, threats causing reasonable fear of immediate violence, arson, and acts of terrorism. The key requirement is that you suffered a criminal injury as a direct result of a violent crime.

Who Can Claim CICA Compensation?

To be eligible for a CICA award, you must meet several criteria established by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme 2012.

Residency and Reporting Requirements

You must have been ordinarily resident in the UK at the time of the incident, or be a British citizen, EU, or EEA national. The crime must have been reported to the police as soon as reasonably practicable, and you must cooperate fully with their investigation.

Time Limits for Claims

You must generally apply within two years of the incident. However, important exceptions exist for childhood abuse — applications can be made within two years of when the victim first reported the abuse to police, even if this was many years after the incident occurred.

Types of CICA Awards Available

CICA compensation falls into three main categories, each addressing different aspects of how the crime has affected you.

Injury Awards

The primary component of most CICA claims is the injury award, calculated using a tariff system with over 400 injury descriptions across 25 bands, ranging from £1,000 for minor injuries to £250,000 for the most severe. Common awards include minor burns at £1,000 to £2,000, fractured bones at £3,500 to £6,200, and moderate PTSD at £3,500 to £8,200.

If you suffered multiple injuries, CICA awards 100% for the most serious injury, 30% for the second, and 15% for the third.

Loss of Earnings

If your injuries have prevented you from working for more than 28 weeks, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income. However, loss of earnings is calculated at the statutory sick pay rate rather than your actual salary, which can result in significantly lower awards than expected.

Special Expenses

Special expenses cover additional costs including NHS prescription charges, private medical treatment, home adaptations, mobility equipment, and care costs. To claim special expenses, you must have lost earnings or earning capacity for at least 28 weeks.

How to Apply for CICA Compensation

Applications are submitted through the GOV.UK website using GOV.UK One Login. The form asks for detailed information about the incident, your police crime reference number, how the incident affected you, details of medical treatment received, and information about lost earnings.

CICA will gather evidence from police reports, medical records, and employment records. You may need to provide a medical report from your GP, with CICA contributing towards costs exceeding £50. Decisions typically take up to 12 months.

Factors That Can Reduce Your Award

Several factors can result in your award being reduced or refused entirely.

Criminal Convictions

Your criminal record is assessed using a points system. Unspent convictions for certain offences can result in automatic refusal, while others may lead to reduced awards.

Contributory Behaviour

If your conduct contributed to the incident — such as provoking the attack, being involved in criminal activity, or excessive alcohol consumption — your award may be reduced or refused.

Challenging CICA Decisions

If you disagree with CICA’s decision, you can request a review within 56 days. Submit a written request explaining why you disagree and provide additional evidence. If the review is unfavourable, you can appeal to the independent First-tier Tribunal for an impartial assessment.

Do You Need a Solicitor?

CICA applications can be made without legal representation. However, professional help proves valuable for complex cases involving multiple injuries or historical abuse. If you choose to use a solicitor, understand their fee structure before proceeding. For guidance, read our guide on how to choose the right injury attorney.

CICA vs Standard Personal Injury Claims

CICA claims are often the only option when the attacker is unknown, the perpetrator has no assets, or criminal proceedings did not result in conviction. Standard personal injury claims may provide higher compensation where a clearly liable defendant exists with adequate insurance. For broader information, see our complete guide to personal injury claims in the UK.

Support Services for Crime Victims

Victim Support is an independent charity offering free, confidential support 24 hours a day. They help with emotional support, practical assistance, and information about your rights including the CICA process.

Taking the Next Step

If you have been injured as a victim of violent crime, CICA provides a pathway to financial recognition that does not depend on identifying your attacker. Start by gathering your police crime reference number, medical records, and evidence of expenses. Then complete the online application through GOV.UK, providing detailed and accurate information.

Remember that seeking compensation is not about profiting from misfortune — it is about receiving the acknowledgement and practical support you deserve to move forward after a traumatic experience.