Each year, the UK sees more than 1.5 million violent crimes. But fewer than 43,000 people apply to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) for the compensation they’re legally entitled to.
That’s not just a gap. It’s a chasm.
The numbers speak for themselves
- ONS police-recorded crime figures (year ending June 2024) show around 1.4 million violent incidents in England & Wales alone.
- Factoring in under-reporting, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and crimes not captured by police or surveys, the true number is likely to be well over 2 million violent incidents UK-wide every year.
- Yet CICA receives just 43,000 new applications annually.
That means less than 3% of victims pursue a claim under the Government’s own criminal injury scheme.
Why is this happening?
Here’s the truth:
- Most people don’t know the scheme exists. Many victims have never heard of CICA, or assume it’s only for the most extreme cases.
- Eligibility rules shut people out. If you didn’t report to the police quickly enough, or you have an unspent conviction, or you waited more than two years, your claim is likely dead in the water.
- The process is complex and cold. For someone already traumatised, dealing with a faceless process can feel impossible. Victims are often asked to relive the worst moment of their life – and then told “no” because of technicalities.
What needs to change?
If the Government is serious about supporting victims of violent crime, then:
- Raise awareness: Every police force, GP, A&E department, rape crisis centre, and social worker should know how to refer victims to CICA.
- Soften the rules: The two-year deadline, the ‘conduct’ bars, and refusal to pay victims with minor convictions need urgent reform.
- Provide better support: Victims need accessible advice and advocacy, not just an online form.
The scheme exists to support those injured through no fault of their own. But right now, the overwhelming majority are slipping through the net.
At GLP Solicitors, we act for victims who’ve been stabbed, raped, beaten, sexually assaulted – and left to deal with the consequences alone. We see first-hand how complex the system is, and how often people miss out.
It shouldn’t be like this. Compensation is not a gift. It’s a right.
If you’ve been the victim of a violent crime, or support someone who has, contact our specialist team at www.criminalinjurycompensation.org for free advice.
Send your enquiry here.
