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Criminal Injuries Compensation (CICA)

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Board (CICB) was set up in 1964.  In 1996 it became an Authority (CICA).  The CICA coves the whole of Great Britain and is funded by the Home Office and the Scottish Executive.  Northern Ireland has a similar system in place.  As it’s name implies, the CICA is an organisation that provides financial compensation to victims of criminal injuries. 

Who can apply to the CICA?

• Anyone who has been physically or psychologically injured because of a violent crime
• If the crime took place in the last two years
• If the person has a close relationship with another person who has been the victim of a violent crime
• Anyone who was present when the crime took place, or involved immediately afterwards
• Anyone whose involvement in the incident caused them a psychological injury

Circumstances when criminal injuries compensation cannot be paid

• If the crime took place outside England, Scotland or Wales;
• If the persons injuries (physical or psychological) did not last six weeks or more;
• If the person was a victim of a road traffic accident, (unless a vehicle was used deliberately to injure them). In these cases contact the Motor Insurance Bureau on 01908 240 000.

Other factors which may affect a CICA claim

• If the applicant has any previous convictions (spent convictions are ignored). In these cases there is a ‘points’ system in place.  Points are awarded on the severity of the applicant’s sentence
• If the applicant didn’t co-operate with the police.  For example, they failed to make a statement or were not prepared to go to court
• If the applicant provoked the incident (e.g. the applicant ‘started’ a fight in which they were injured)
• If there is insufficient evidence to support a claim
• If the crime was reported late (unless there is a good reason).

Other important information regarding a CICA claim

It is important to let clients know that it can take up to a year for a claim to be awarded (assuming that they are eligible for compensation).  If a client is not happy with the amount awarded, or is unsuccessful, they can have this decision reviewed and if necessary appeal against the decision.

VSW can assist the client at every stage of the CICA process.  Some solicitors also offer this service, but, if your client is thinking of applying via a solicitor, please ensure they determine what the cost is (most solicitors take a percentage of the amount award).

Please contact the office if you have any questions regarding CICA (or if you would like a copy of our handout on CICA).

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