A setback for justice?
In a move that has sparked significant backlash from legal professionals and survivors’ advocates, the UK government has officially rejected several key reforms to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (CICS). Despite widespread public and expert support, particularly for changes aimed at better supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse, the government’s response has been widely criticised as regressive and unjust. GLP Solicitors, a leading legal firm in this area, has voiced serious concerns about the government’s decision and what it means for victims seeking justice.
What is the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme is a government-run initiative that provides financial support to victims of violent crime. It exists to acknowledge the suffering caused by criminal acts and to assist survivors in rebuilding their lives.
Key Features of the Scheme
- Compensation for physical and psychological injuries
- Support for loss of earnings and special expenses
- A strict eligibility process, including a clean criminal record
Learn more about how the CICS works.
The Proposed Reforms – and why they mattered
1. Removing the “Unspent Convictions” Rule
One of the most controversial rules under the current scheme is the automatic disqualification of applicants with unspent criminal convictions, even when those convictions stem from abuse-related trauma.
“The refusal to amend this rule ignores the reality that many survivors were criminalised because of the abuse they suffered,” said Steven Astley, Partner at GLP Solicitors.
This recommendation was also supported by the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), which called it an essential reform.
2. Extending the Time Limit for Claims
Many survivors of abuse need years—sometimes decades—to come forward. The government declined to extend the current two-year limit for making claims, a move widely regarded as out of touch with trauma-informed best practices.
3. Expanding the Definition of “Crime of Violence”
Campaigners have long argued that non-contact forms of abuse, including coercive control and online exploitation, should be recognised as violent crimes under the scheme. This proposal, too, was rejected.
Government’s Justification: Cost vs. Compassion?
The government claims that implementing the full slate of reforms could cost up to £10 billion, raising concerns about affordability and the impact on other public services. However, critics argue that financial pragmatism should not come at the expense of justice.
“This was a golden opportunity to create a fairer system. Instead, we’ve been handed austerity disguised as fairness,” added Astley.
Legal and Public Response
GLP Solicitors’ Position
As one of the UK’s most experienced firms in criminal injury law, GLP Solicitors has condemned the government’s decision as a profound failure of compassion and accountability.
- Advocating for trauma-informed policy reform
- Challenging unjust decisions under the current CICS
- Providing expert, empathetic legal support to survivors
Read more about GLP Solicitors’ work in criminal injuries compensation.
Broader Impact
Legal experts and advocacy groups warn that the rejection of these reforms could deter victims from seeking justice and further entrench inequality in the system.
What comes next?
While the government has hinted at potential future changes under the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024, many fear that the most meaningful window for reform has already closed.
That said, the legal fight is far from over. GLP Solicitors continues to push for change, standing with victims and holding the government accountable.
How you can take action
If you or someone you know has been affected by a decision under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme, don’t navigate the process alone.
Contact GLP Solicitors for:
- Expert advice on eligibility and appeals
- Confidential support tailored to survivors
- A free initial consultation
Contact GLP Solicitors today to speak with a legal expert.
The government’s decision to reject key reforms to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme has left many disheartened. However, the fight for justice is far from over.