Recent reforms introduced by the UK Government aim to improve the way rape and sexual assault cases are investigated and prosecuted, while also strengthening the support available to survivors.
For many victims, the criminal justice process can feel overwhelming. These new measures are designed to increase protection, improve legal guidance, and reduce barriers that often discourage survivors from reporting offences.
Alongside these changes, survivors may also be entitled to financial compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
This article explains the latest legal reforms for rape victims in 2026 and how they may relate to making a CICA claim.
New independent legal advice for rape victims
One of the most significant developments is the expansion of independent legal advice services for survivors of rape and serious sexual offences.
Previously, victims were not given their own lawyer during criminal investigations. However, pilot schemes have shown that access to independent legal advice can help survivors better understand their rights.
Under the new support framework:
- Victims can receive independent legal advice during police investigations
- Lawyers can advise survivors about privacy rights and disclosure requests
- Victims can receive help if police request access to personal records such as phone data or therapy notes
The Government has committed funding to expand this support nationally, helping survivors navigate complex legal procedures with greater confidence.
Stronger privacy protection for counselling records
Another key reform focuses on protecting the privacy of survivors’ counselling and therapy records.
In the past, victims were sometimes asked to disclose highly personal counselling notes as part of criminal investigations. This practice was widely criticised for discouraging survivors from seeking support.
Under updated guidance:
- Police must now show that counselling records are strictly necessary and highly relevant to the case
- Investigators cannot request these records as a routine step
- Survivors should be fully informed before any request is made
These protections aim to ensure victims can access mental health support without fear that confidential therapy sessions will automatically become evidence in court.
Tackling “Rape Myths” in the courtroom
The Government has also announced reforms aimed at improving how rape trials are conducted.
Courts are being encouraged to address harmful misconceptions often referred to as “rape myths”, such as assumptions about how victims should behave after an assault.
The reforms aim to:
- Prevent unfair questioning about unrelated sexual history
- Improve the treatment of victims during cross-examination
- Reduce the likelihood of survivors withdrawing from cases due to distress during the trial process
These changes form part of wider efforts to ensure rape trials are conducted in a fair and respectful way.
Operation Soteria: Changing how rape investigations work
The Government continues to roll out Operation Soteria, a national programme designed to improve rape investigations across England and Wales.
Traditionally, investigations sometimes focused heavily on scrutinising the victim’s credibility. Operation Soteria shifts the focus towards examining the behaviour and evidence relating to the suspect.
This approach aims to:
- Improve evidence-gathering methods
- Increase the number of cases reaching prosecution
- Encourage more victims to come forward
By improving investigative practices, the initiative hopes to restore confidence in the justice system for survivors of sexual violence.
How these changes relate to CICA claims
While criminal prosecutions aim to hold offenders accountable, survivors may also be entitled to financial compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
The CICA scheme is a Government programme that provides compensation to victims of violent crime, including rape and sexual assault.
Compensation may be available even if:
- The offender has not been identified
- The offender has not been convicted
- The criminal case has not yet reached court
However, certain eligibility requirements must still be met.
For example:
- The incident usually must be reported to the police
- Claims generally must be submitted within two years of the incident (although exceptions may apply in some circumstances, particularly for historical abuse)
For many survivors, a CICA claim can provide financial support for the harm suffered, including recognition of the impact of sexual violence.
Seeking legal advice for a CICA claim
Although the CICA scheme is designed to support victims, the application process can sometimes be complex.
Survivors may need assistance with:
- Understanding eligibility requirements
- Gathering evidence and documentation
- Appealing rejected or undervalued claims
Legal support can help ensure victims receive the compensation they may be entitled to under the scheme.
How GLP Solicitors can help
At GLP Solicitors, we understand how difficult it can be for survivors of sexual violence to navigate legal processes.
Our team provides confidential and compassionate legal support for CICA claims, helping victims pursue the compensation they deserve.
We can assist with:
- Submitting a CICA application
- Challenging rejected claims
- Appealing compensation decisions
- Supporting survivors through every stage of the process
If you would like advice about a CICA claim following rape or sexual assault, our team is here to help.
Contact our team here. I Visit our specialised website here for Criminal Injury Claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Survivors of rape or sexual assault may be eligible to claim compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), a government scheme designed to compensate victims of violent crime. A criminal conviction is not always required, but the incident must usually be reported to the police.
No. A conviction is not required to make a CICA claim. Compensation may still be awarded if there is sufficient evidence that a violent crime occurred, even if the offender is not identified or prosecuted.
In most cases, CICA claims must be made within two years of the incident being reported to the police. However, exceptions may apply, particularly in cases involving historical abuse or where victims were unable to report the crime earlier.
Compensation amounts are based on a tariff set by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority. Payments vary depending on the circumstances and severity of the crime, and additional compensation may be available in certain cases.
Rape victims in the UK may receive support through police specialist units, Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs), counselling services, and legal advice. Survivors may also be eligible for financial compensation through the CICA scheme.