Domestic violence compensation is a lifeline to survivors who have been subjected to abuse and require help to rebuild their lives.
Under the CICA (Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority) scheme, victims of violent crimes are entitled to criminal injuries compensation to provide them with recognition and financial support in the UK. If you have sustained physical or psychological injuries from domestic abuse, you may be entitled to claim domestic violence compensation.
This guide will help you through the steps to get the compensation you are entitled to, explain the process, who is eligible, and how criminal solicitors could support you to protect your rights and get justice.
Table of Contents
Understanding Domestic Violence And Abuse
Domestic violence is about more than just physical violence. It encompasses emotional, psychological, financial and sexual abuse, all of which can ruin lives. The UK acknowledges these types of abuse under the law, and victims have recovery options.
What Is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence refers to abuse occurring between family or intimate partners. In the UK, the Government’s advice on domestic abuse explains it as:
- Physical harm such as hitting, punching, or fracturing bones
- Threats, isolation, humiliation, or other forms of emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse, such as coercing or unwanted sexual contact
- Financial abuse is when someone takes control of your access to money
- Neglect or withholding of essential care
Quote:
“Domestic abuse is not limited to physical violence. It can include emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, and even digital abuse.”
– NHS Domestic Violence Help
How to Know “Am I a Victim of Domestic Violence”? Signs
Sometimes we ourselves don’t even realise that we are victims of abuse. Not all abuse leaves bruises. Here are signs that you may have reasons to claim domestic abuse:
- Unexplained injuries or repeated accidents
- Anxiety, depression, or changes in behaviour
- A partner controls your finances or daily decisions
- Sexual contact without consent
- Threats, intimidation, or stalking
If there are any you relate to, don’t be afraid to take confidential advice or free legal advice from specialist organisations such as Cooperhall Solicitors.
Read more: How Legality in Criminal Law Impacts Your Case
Types Of Domestic Abuse Recognised In Claims
When you want to make a CICA claim (Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority), it is important to know what counts.
Physical Abuse
This involves any kind of physical injury.
Examples: bruises, scars, broken bones, anxiety and persistent pain.
Physical abuse is the most common reason for domestic violence claims in the UK.
Emotional & Psychological Abuse
Invisible but devastating.
Examples: Emotional abuse, gaslighting, constant threats or isolation from friends and family. Such are eligible for compensation in a criminal injuries scheme.
Sexual Abuse
Any form of inappropriate sexual contact or exploitation. Both adults and minors are eligible to make a claim for such abuse, including if it happened many years ago, abuse is covered in the CICA scheme.
Financial Abuse & Coercive Control
If someone controls your access to money, withholds basic needs, or traps you in debt, it’s financial abuse. Now, coercive control has been accepted as part of a claim for domestic abuse compensation under UK law.
Neglect (if applicable to UK law/CICA)
Neglect is defined as failing to provide basic care, food or safety. Not as frequent in adult claims, but so for children or vulnerable adults.
Am I Eligible To Claim Domestic Violence Compensation?
There are certain eligibility requirements in place in order to begin a CICA claim for abuse claimants.
Who Can Claim? (Adults, children, dependents, etc.)
| Direct victims | Anyone suffering physical injuries or psychological injuries |
| Children | Minors can claim with a parent or guardian’s help |
| Dependents | Sometimes, family members affected by a loved one’s abuse may claim |
What Are The Eligibility Criteria For A CICA Claim?
To get CICA compensation, you must:
- Have suffered a crime of violence in England, Wales, or Scotland
- Report the incident to the police (reporting to the police is required)
- Provide a police reference number
- Claim within the time limit for the claim (usually two years, some exceptions for historic abuse)
Read more: Criminal Solicitors: Your First Step After an Arrest
Is There A Time Limit For Making A CICA Claim?
Generally, you must start your domestic violence compensation claim within two years of the incident. In rare cases, such as claiming for historic abuse, the CICA may allow late claims.
Can I Claim If The Defendant Has Not Been Convicted?
Yes. The CICA scheme pays out even if the abuser isn’t convicted. What matters is that you reported the crime and there’s enough medical evidence or supporting evidence for CICA claims.
How To Start A Domestic Violence Compensation Claim
Navigating the process of claiming may seem daunting, but breaking it down helps.
Step-by-Step Process
To make a CICA claim:
- Report the abuse to the police and obtain a police reference number
- Gather your medical evidence (doctor’s notes, hospital reports)
- Submit an application on the CICA website
- Wait for the CICA to request more evidence or documents
- CICA reviews your application and issues a decision
- Accept the offer or appeal if you disagree
Tip: You can get free claim assessment and legal support for abuse victims from specialist solicitors or charities like Women’s Aid.
Evidence Needed For Domestic Abuse Compensation Claims
You’ll need:
- Police report and reference number
- Medical reports for physical injuries or psychological trauma
- Proof of residency in the UK
- Witness statements, if possible
- Financial records (for loss of earnings or special expenses)
The CICA will contact the police for additional details. Supporting evidence for CICA claims is essential for success.
Claiming Compensation Through The CICA (Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority)
The CICA is a government body designed to support victims of violent crimes.
What Is The CICA?
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority processes claims for criminal injuries compensation in the UK. It awards payouts from a compensation scheme rather than from the abuser.
How Does The CICA Process Work?
- Application submitted online
- CICA reviews police and medical evidence
- Decision made—either an offer of CICA compensation or a request for more information
- Appeals process available for rejected or low offers
What Types Of Domestic Violence Can I Claim Through The CICA?
You can claim for:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Severe psychological injuries
- Threat of violence
Note: You can claim up to three injuries per incident, using the multiple injuries formula.
Common Difficulties And How To Overcome Them
Some challenges:
- Lack of medical evidence
- Not knowing which incidents to claim
- Missing the time limit for the claim
- Difficulty with reporting to the police
Solution:
Get legal representation from an expert solicitor or a no-win-no-fee solicitor. Cooperhall Solicitors offers confidential advice, free legal advice, and even a 24/7 live chat for questions.
How Much Compensation Can I Claim For Domestic Violence?
The CICA tariff sets fixed payouts. The value of your domestic violence compensation depends on the injuries and losses.
Domestic Violence Compensation Table
Here’s a summary of common compensation payout examples (from CICA Tariff):
| Injury Type | Severity/Details | Example Payout |
| Multiple injuries + expenses | Severe injuries + special costs | Up to £500,000 |
| Major paralysis | Paraplegia – substantially complete | £175,000 |
| Brain damage | Moderate, significant dependence | £82,000 |
| Mental injury | Permanent, seriously disabling | £27,000 |
| Loss of one eye | Permanent | £27,000 |
| Severe burns | To the upper limbs | £11,000 |
| Fractures, face | Multiple facial fractures | £11,000 |
| Back, ruptured discs | Surgery required | £11,000 |
For detailed payouts, see the official CICA compensation payout calculator or contact a domestic abuse solicitor in the UK.
Special Expenses In Criminal Injury Claims
You might also receive extra for:
- Medical care (operations, medications)
- Counselling and therapy
- Relocation costs (if you must move for safety)
- Home adaptations (like a stairlift)
- Aids damaged in the incident (glasses, hearing aids)
These are called special expenses. You must show receipts and that the costs are necessary, reasonable, and not covered elsewhere.
Loss of Earnings Compensation
If you can’t work due to injuries, loss of earnings may be available. CICA requires:
- Proof you can’t work due to the abuse
- Medical evidence and work history
- Minimum 28 weeks off work
Case Studies And Real Examples
Case Study 1:
A woman in Manchester suffered physical injuries and psychological trauma after years of abuse. She reported to police, provided medical records, and received CICA compensation of £18,000 for multiple injuries and therapy costs (Source).
Case Study 2:
A young man experienced sexual abuse as a teenager. He filed a claim for historic abuse after therapy revealed lasting effects. Even though the perpetrator wasn’t convicted, his CICA claim succeeded, awarding him £22,000 (BBC News).
Why Choose Cooper Hall Solicitors For Your Domestic Violence Claim?
When it comes to your safety and future, choose the best. Cooper Hall Solicitors offers:
- Experienced, expert solicitors in all types of domestic violence claims in the UK
- No win no fee solicitor service—no upfront costs, only pay if you win
- Support with every step—evidence, forms, appeals
- Confidential advice, empathy, and a 24/7 helpline
- Remote and online support across England, Wales, Scotland
Our team fights for your victims’ rights and ensures you get the compensation for victims of abuse that you deserve.
Contact Us For Free Confidential Advice
Claiming domestic violence compensation in the UK is more than a legal process—it’s a powerful step toward justice and freedom. With the right support and expert solicitors by your side, you can secure the criminal injuries compensation you deserve for both physical injuries and emotional trauma. Don’t let abuse define your future. Take action, protect your rights, and start your journey to healing and independence today.
Ready to start your CICA claim or have questions?
- Call us today for free legal advice
- Use our online contact form
You’re not alone. Let Cooper Hall Solicitors help you rebuild.
“Justice is never automatic. It’s something you claim for yourself.”
— Survivor of Domestic Violence, Refuge UK
Useful Resources:
- Women’s Aid
- NHS Domestic Violence Help
- Government guidance on domestic abuse
