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What is the CICA?

What does "CICA" stand for?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a government agency in the UK that provides compensation to victims of violent crimes.

It operates under the Ministry of Justice and is designed to compensate individuals who have suffered physical or mental injury as a result of violent crime when they cannot claim compensation from other sources, such as the perpetrator.

The scheme helps victims who have experienced various forms of violence, including assault, sexual abuse, and other crimes.

The CICA

It’s a taxpayer funded government organisation based in Glasgow that pays compensation to victims of crime who are eligible under their scheme. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme was last revised in 2012. Schemes usually change every 5 to 7 years, but recently the government has not been making new legislation due to Brexit.

Is it easy to obtain compensation?

The simple answer is no. Why is that? Whilst its original intentions were honourable when it was set up in 1965, over the years the scheme has become much more limited and much stricter in how it applies its rules.

We call the scheme, a scheme of ‘last resort’. It’s better than nothing, but often its rules are applied to prevent claims most people would think are eligible. We always recommend having a free chat with a Solicitor who specialises in CICA claims. You can call us on 0113 320 5000 or email on cica@winstonsolicitors.co.uk

In a word, money. As with most Government departments, saving money is a priority. We mentioned the current scheme is from 2012, the schemes before this, which were 2008 and 2001, paid compensation for bruising, all scars and injuries such as black eyes and broken nose.

It’s better to apply to the CICA scheme knowing you should be eligible, than simply expecting or hoping you are eligible. So speak to an expert first, we will be able to advise you whether your injuries will qualify under the current CICA scheme and how much you are likely to be awarded.

Our CICA compensation calculator can give you a guide as to what compensation you may be entitled to claim.

This is our top 5 reasons the CICA reject a claim

  1. The assault was not reported to the police
  2. Whilst you reported the assault to the police you subsequently decided to withdraw your statement or you chose not to press charges
  3. You have previous criminal convictions which are not spent under the CICA scheme
  4. Your injuries are not eligible under the scheme
  5. You do not have the medical evidence to prove your injuries continue to cause you pain (e.g. sprained ankle, frozen shoulder)

Contact by email at cica@winstonsolicitors.co.uk, call 0113 320 5000 or complete our online application form and we'll get back to you.

Client feedback

I am incredibly grateful to Winston Solicitors, and especially to Stacey Flegg and Keertan Gill, for their exceptional support in helping me receive my CICA compensation. From start to finish, they handled my claim with professionalism, empathy, and a deep understanding of the delicate nature of my situation.Both Stacey and Keertan were kind, approachable, and extremely knowledgeable. They kept me informed throughout the process and made what felt like an overwhelming journey so much more manageable.I truly appreciate all their hard work and dedication, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Winston Solicitors to anyone seeking legal support—especially in sensitive and complex matters.Thank you, Stacey and Keertan, for your outstanding service and for making such a positive difference.
Raluca
Thanks to Winston Solicitors, they have done an amazing job. They responded quickly and accurately and are an outstanding Solicitors I personally I would recommend using them.
Nicholas
For anyone who has doubts to start the process of compensation through CICA being represented by Winston Solicitors is can categorically say its worth it.Stacey was excellent from day one and very reassuring. Any questions, doubts i had she put them all rest. The process was long due to one reason or another from mainly my side. I highly recommend this Solicitors .
Anonymous
I have been supported throughout my claim very professionally and was always updated by Stacey Flagg, very pleased I chose Winston’s Solicitors to act on my behalf
Craig
They kept in regular contact and updated me as expected. When talking to them on the phone , I found them to be kind , compassionate , caring and efficient.
Emily
Very good service I got from Winston solicitors, they gave me the best service possible.
Kenneth
Brilliant solicitors very professional from the first phone call they listened and cared and saw my complaint through to the end with me receiving the full compensation amount in my case ,would recommend Winston solicitors for all matters ..
Roy
Excellent service would definitely recommend.
Keith
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