Criminal Injury Compensation: How Much Can You Claim Through CICA? (2025 Guide)

⚖️ Criminal Injury Compensation: How Much Can You Claim Through CICA? (2025 Guide)

Being the victim of a violent crime can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial damage. The UK operates a government-backed scheme called CICA — the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority — which provides compensation to victims of violent crime.

At Harrison Bryce Solicitors, we help clients navigate the CICA process, gather evidence, strengthen their claim, and secure the maximum compensation available.
This guide explains who can apply, how payouts are calculated, and what you may be entitled to.

1️⃣ What Is CICA?

CICA provides compensation for victims of:

• Violent crime
• Assault
• Abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual)
• Hit and run incidents
• Domestic violence
• Threats of violence leading to psychological injury

It is designed for people who may not otherwise be able to claim directly from an offender.

2️⃣ Who Can Make a CICA Claim?

You may be eligible if:

✔ You were the victim of a violent crime in England, Scotland, or Wales
✔ The incident was reported to the police
✔ You cooperated fully with the investigation
✔ Your injuries meet the minimum CICA compensation threshold

You can claim even if the offender was:

• Never caught
• Never identified
• Not prosecuted
• Found not guilty

3️⃣ What Types of Injuries Can Be Compensated?

CICA covers a wide range:

🩹 Physical Injuries

• Broken bones
• Cuts and lacerations
• Permanent scarring
• Burns
• Facial injuries

🧠 Psychological Injuries

• PTSD
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Emotional trauma
• Long-term mental health conditions

🛑 Abuse Claims

Including:

• Physical abuse
• Domestic abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Child abuse

🚗 Hit and Run Incidents

Where the driver fled or could not be identified.

4️⃣ How Much Compensation Could You Receive?

CICA compensation varies depending on the injury type and severity.

Examples:

• Minor scarring: £1,000–£2,400
• Significant permanent scarring: £2,400–£11,000
• Broken bone (e.g., wrist or ankle): £1,500–£4,600
• Severe psychological injury: £6,200–£27,000+
• Loss of earnings (long-term): Up to several years of lost income

CICA uses a fixed tariff system, and claims follow a structured evaluation.

5️⃣ What Evidence Do You Need?

✔ Police Crime Reference Number

This is essential — no police report, no claim.

✔ Medical Evidence

From:

• GP
• A&E
• Specialist report
• Mental health therapist reports

✔ Proof of Losses

For example:

• Loss of earnings
• Travel expenses
• Medical costs
• Personal items damaged during the incident

The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim.

6️⃣ How Long Does the CICA Process Take?

Most claims take 12–18 months, depending on:

• Injury severity
• Police investigation progress
• Medical evidence availability

Serious injury cases may take longer.

7️⃣ Why Use a Solicitor for a CICA Claim?

The CICA application process can be strict and complex. Claims are often rejected for minor mistakes or missing evidence.

A solicitor helps by:

• Completing the CICA form correctly
• Collecting evidence
• Handling appeals if the claim is rejected
• Maximising compensation
• Supporting you throughout the process

With Harrison Bryce Solicitors, you receive expert legal guidance from start to finish.

📞 Speak to Harrison Bryce Solicitors Today

If you have suffered an injury due to violent crime — physical, emotional, or both — you may be entitled to compensation through CICA.

➡ Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.
You focus on healing; we handle the legal process.