Compensation for childhood abuse

Can I claim compensation for abuse when I was a child?

Yes you can, even if it was many years ago. In fact any sexual abuse suffered after 1965 which has been reported to the police can be considered for compensation.

Speak to our criminal injuries claim team, call 0113 320 5000

But I have not reported the abuse to the police

That’s fine. You do need to report it before a claim can be made, but you do not need to worry that the abuse you intend reporting occurred many years ago. Hopefully the person that abused you is still alive, so the police will be able to interview them, but even if they are not, the police should still interview you.

How will the police handle my historic abuse?

Surprisingly well. We always suggest contacting the police first to say you wish to report a historic abuse matter. That way they will usually have appropriately trained officers present to take down your statement. Feedback from our clients especially over the last 3 years has on the whole been positive about how sensitively and well their statement has been dealt with.

I reported the abuse many years ago but have not made a claim.

Don’t worry, speak to our specialist childhood abuse lawyers on 0113 320 5000 or email cica@winstonsolicitors.co.uk and we will be able to explain how a claim can be made. It’s a bit more complicated, but with our experience we will be able to tell you quickly if a claim can be made.

I’m worried that applying for compensation will bring back bad memories

By using a specialist solicitor, they will act for you and ensure that you deal with matters in your own time. The CICA does have mechanisms in place to give victims more time, and we use these where appropriate. Of course if you would prefer the claim to be dealt with as quickly as possible, a solicitor will be able to move your claim on as they are used to communicating with the CICA on a daily basis.

To discuss making a claim, contact us on 0113 320 5000

So I’d like to claim, but how long will it take?

Claims timescales do differ considerably. There are cases that are dealt with very quickly, literally within a few months, and others that take more than 2 years. We know which cases are dealt with quickly and which much more slowly, so just ask – call 0113 320 5000 or email cica@winstonsolicitors.co.uk

Client feedback

I instructed Winstons to assist me in a CiCA application. Keertan and Heidi made it a stress free process. The communication was amazing and all conversations were done in a sensitive and compassionate way. The knowledge and advice I received was comprehensive but helped me understand each stage of the process. I needed an out of time waiver and was so grateful that they achieved this and I received and award that accounted for all of the offences. I could not recommend them enough. Thank you so much for your help.

Victoria

Thank you so much for your help in my pursuit a CICA claim. Keertan was very helpful and informative at each stage of the process. I would highly reccomend Winstons solicitors to help future clients with their claim.

Marcus

I would highly recommend these solicitors to anyone they're amazing they keep you updated with anything and everything amazing service

Chelsea

Me and my little sister both got compensation although mine took a lot longer due to the complexity of the case. My main case worker and even the ones that picked up the case when she was unwell did everything above and beyond to provide me with as much information and clarity. I would 100% recommend to anyone how is looking for justice in which the police failed to provide. Not only this the fee they take as their own fees is very reasonable. Not only did she help me with my case but she also helped me in a person level to acsess files of my case that I struggled to obtain. This held no importance to her but she helped me either way. Anytime I called or emailed I got a prompt reply. Thank you to you all I wish you nothing but success and blessings.

Lameysha

Amazing wonderful solicitors who are always there for you when you need any help with your case. I appreciate all hard work they have done for me and every step of the way keeping in contact with me with updates. I highly recommend Winston's solicitors 10 star rating in my view. They very quick and efficient service the best the business.They helped me turn my life around I am grateful and thankful for there help.

Lucy

I was extremely impressed with the service that Winston solicitors provided, they kept me well informed about my case and dealt with it very quickly.

Anonymous

I would highly recommend and have recommended Winston solicitors, 5 ⭐️

Anonymous

I just want to say thank you to Heidi Stewart at Winston solicitors for all the compassion and help for me getting my compensation, she has remarkable and can’t thank her enough! X

Liam