While many websites will tell you that the time limit for making a CICA compensation claim is just two years, the reality is far more complex than that. Take for example the case that I dealt with on behalf of a client who for confidentiality reasons I will refer to as A.
I was contacted by A when she needed legal help with making an application to the government’s Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) Scheme. She was a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, but had discovered she was outside the usual time limit for bringing a compensation claim through the CICA. She had almost given up on the idea of recovering compensation, but decided to give it one last go by speaking to me.
It was an excellent decision, as I was able to tell her that a CICA compensation claim could still be made.
I explained that although the time limit for making a CICA application is usually two years from the date of the crime, that time limit can be extended for a CICA rape claim or a claim for sexual abuse. This is because survivors often face barriers that prevent them from applying within the standard timeframe, such as trauma, fear, or lack of awareness about their rights.
Taking account of the catastrophic impact of the abuse on A’s mental health, I felt confident that the time limit would be extended. I therefore agreed to make an application to the CICA on A’s behalf, working on a No Win, No Fee basis.
The CICA accepted my representations and agreed to extend the time limit so that A’s claim could proceed. In turn, this led to the CICA making a compensation award of £11,000.
However, I was unhappy with that sum and immediately applied for it to be reviewed. I told the CICA that A should receive extra compensation because she had been unable to work as a result of the abuse for many years.
The CICA again agreed with me, and increased its offer to over £45,000.
A was delighted with the offer. She said would make a huge difference to her life and asked me to accept it.
If you need guidance on making a CICA rape claim, then contact me on our free confidential helpline.
