Last Updated: 6 August 2026 I Reading Time: 6 minutes
Summary
Psychological injuries can have a profound and lasting impact following a violent crime. While many people are aware that physical injuries may qualify for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), fewer realise that certain psychological injuries may also be eligible.
However, claims for psychological injuries have specific eligibility requirements and evidence standards. Understanding what the CICA looks for, and seeking advice early, can help avoid unnecessary delays and improve your chances of a successful claim.
Quick answer
You may be able to claim compensation for a psychological injury through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) if you have suffered a disabling mental injury as a result of a violent crime. To succeed, you will usually need appropriate medical evidence, and your claim must meet the eligibility requirements set out in the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme.
In this article
- Can you claim for psychological injuries?
- What evidence does the CICA require?
- Common challenges when making a claim
- Why you should not delay your application
- How GLP Solicitors can help
- Frequently Asked Questions
Key takeaways
- Psychological injuries may qualify for CICA compensation.
- The injury must meet the eligibility requirements of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme.
- Medical evidence is essential.
- Temporary emotional distress alone is unlikely to qualify.
- Most claims should be submitted within two years of the incident.
- Waiting for treatment should not necessarily delay seeking legal advice.
- Early advice can help preserve your claim while evidence is gathered.
Can you claim compensation for psychological injuries?
Yes.
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) recognises that violent crime can result in significant psychological as well as physical injuries.
A psychological injury may qualify for compensation if it satisfies the requirements set out in the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme. Every application is assessed on its individual facts and the available medical evidence.
What does the CICA mean by a psychological injury?
The Scheme distinguishes between temporary emotional reactions and disabling mental injuries.
Many victims experience fear, anxiety or distress following a violent crime. While these reactions are entirely understandable, temporary emotional responses alone are generally not eligible for compensation under the Scheme.
Instead, the CICA looks for evidence of a recognised psychological condition that has had a significant impact on the individual’s daily life.
What evidence is required?
To support a claim for psychological injuries, the CICA will usually require medical evidence demonstrating that:
- you have suffered a disabling mental injury
- the injury affects your ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities
- the condition has lasted for a significant period
- there is an appropriate diagnosis or prognosis from a suitably qualified medical professional
The precise evidence required will depend on the circumstances of your claim.
Who can diagnose a psychological injury?
The CICA generally expects evidence from a consultant psychiatrist or clinical psychologist.
Depending on your circumstances, other healthcare professionals involved in your treatment may also provide relevant evidence, particularly where their work is overseen by an appropriately qualified specialist.
Every case is different, and the CICA will consider the available medical evidence as a whole.
Don’t delay making your claim
One of the biggest challenges for victims is that waiting lists for mental health services can be lengthy.
Some people delay making a CICA application because they are waiting for:
- counselling
- psychological assessments
- psychiatric appointments
- a formal diagnosis
However, most CICA claims should be submitted within two years of the incident.
Waiting too long could place your claim at risk if the time limit expires.
Seeking legal advice early allows your circumstances to be assessed while medical evidence continues to develop.
Can you apply before receiving a diagnosis?
In some situations, yes.
If you are still receiving treatment or waiting to be assessed, it may still be appropriate to begin preparing your claim.
For example, evidence may already exist through:
- your GP
- hospital records
- counselling services
- community mental health teams
- treating professionals supervised by a consultant psychiatrist or clinical psychologist
Every case is different, so obtaining advice early can help identify the evidence that may already be available.
Common mistakes to avoid
Applications involving psychological injuries are sometimes delayed or refused because:
- applicants wait too long before seeking advice
- insufficient medical evidence is provided
- the injury does not meet the Scheme’s requirements
- important documents are missing
- the application is submitted outside the time limit
Preparing your claim carefully from the outset can help avoid these issues.
How GLP Solicitors can help
Making a CICA claim for psychological injuries can feel overwhelming, particularly while you are recovering.
GLP Solicitors has extensive experience helping victims of violent crime pursue Criminal Injury Compensation claims. We can:
- assess whether you may be eligible to claim
- explain the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme
- identify the medical evidence that may be required
- help gather supporting documentation
- prepare and submit your application
- advise on reviews and appeals where appropriate
Our aim is to make the process as straightforward as possible while ensuring your claim is supported by appropriate evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Possibly. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may qualify for compensation if it meets the eligibility requirements of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme and is supported by appropriate medical evidence.
Not necessarily. While specialist medical evidence is often required, it is sensible to seek legal advice as early as possible rather than delaying your claim. A solicitor can advise on what evidence may already be available.
Temporary emotional distress alone is unlikely to qualify under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme. The CICA generally requires evidence of a disabling mental injury that meets the Scheme’s criteria.
In most cases, applications should be made within two years of the violent crime. There are limited exceptions, but they depend on the individual circumstances of the case.
This varies depending on the claim but commonly includes medical records, hospital information and reports from consultant psychiatrists or clinical psychologists. The CICA assesses all available evidence before making a decision.
Yes. If you have suffered both physical and psychological injuries as a result of a violent crime, both may be considered as part of your application, provided they satisfy the requirements of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme.
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