Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)

CICA: compensation for victims of violent crime in the UK

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is the UK public body that handles compensation applications for people who have suffered physical or mental injury as a result of a violent crime. The scheme also covers cases of sexual assault, the death of a close relative, having witnessed the crime against a loved one, or having paid for their funeral.

Applications are made to CICA and are free of charge. You do not have to use a legal adviser, and if you choose to use one, you cannot claim the cost back. As a general rule, the time limit for claiming is two years from the crime, which must have been reported to the police beforehand.

What an application must include

The form requires specific details about the case and the applicant:

• Date and location of the crime.
• Name of the police force you reported the crime to and your crime reference number.
• Your GP's name and address.
• Your dentist's name and address, if you had dental treatment because of your injuries.
• Details of any previous applications you've made to CICA.

You'll also be asked if you've tried to get compensation or other money you're entitled to, for example through benefits, insurance payments, a civil court claim or compensation from a criminal court case. CICA states that you should not wait for the outcome of those other claims before applying.

Applying on behalf of someone else

When applying for compensation for someone else, you may need to provide proof of your right to do so. If the person you're applying for is under 18, you'll need proof of parental responsibility, such as a full birth certificate or a court order. If they cannot handle their own affairs, you'll need proof of legal authority to act on their behalf, such as power of attorney or a court order.

Online processing and access to the service

You can apply online. To save your application and return to it later, you'll need a GOV.UK One Login account, which you can create if you do not already have one. The service will time out if you stop using it for 30 minutes or more.

CICA offers a helpline for those who do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device or do not have internet access. You can also ask a friend or relative to make an application on your behalf. For general questions about the process, there is a contact form, with replies usually within 10 working days; if you cannot use it, you can email your enquiry.

Amounts and cases covered

The scheme provides compensation for injuries which, according to published information, can range from £1,000 to £250,000 where the eligibility requirements are met. You can also claim if you were injured while trying to stop a crime and took what is considered a justified and exceptional risk, for example where someone was in danger and it was not a situation you were trained to deal with.

CICA also refers people to practical and emotional support services for victims of crime in England, Wales and Scotland, as well as advice available from trade unions.