You may be entitled to compensation for sexual assault or abuse, even if it happened many years ago

Sexual assault can have a profound and lasting impact on every aspect of a person’s life.

Many victims live with the effects of abuse for years before feeling able to speak about what happened. Others may have reported the abuse to the police but never realised that compensation may also be available. If you have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault or rape, you may be entitled to compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).

Our team understands the sensitive nature of these claims and will treat your case with compassion, respect and understanding throughout the process.


Can I Claim Compensation For Sexual Abuse?

You may be able to make a claim if you have experienced:

• Sexual assault

• Rape

• Child sexual abuse

• Historic sexual abuse

• Abuse by a family member

• Abuse by a person in a position of trust

• Abuse in schools, care settings or institutions

• Grooming offences involving sexual abuse

Compensation may be available for both physical injuries and psychological injuries resulting from the abuse.



What If The Abuse Happened Years Ago?

Many sexual abuse claims involve incidents that occurred years or even decades ago.

It is common for victims to delay reporting abuse because of fear, shame, trauma or concerns about not being believed.

The CICA recognises that victims of sexual abuse often face unique barriers to coming forward.

Although there are time limits within the scheme, extensions can often be considered in appropriate cases and many historic abuse claims are successfully pursued outside the standard two-year period.

It is therefore important not to assume that you are unable to claim simply because the abuse happened a long time ago.


Does Somebody Need To Be Convicted?

No. As long as you fully co-operated with the Police. Compensation can sometimes be awarded even where:

• No criminal conviction has been obtained

• Criminal proceedings were not pursued

• The offender was never identified

Each claim is assessed on its own circumstances and the available evidence.


What Compensation Can Be Claimed?

The level of compensation will depend on the circumstances of the abuse and the injuries suffered.

This may include compensation for:

• Sexual abuse

• Psychological trauma

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Loss of earnings in certain circumstances

• Special expenses in certain circumstances

Every case is different and specialist advice should be obtained.


Will I Need To Attend Court?

In most cases, no.

CICA claims are generally dealt with directly by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority. In more complex cases or if an award can not be agreed your case can go to a tribunal. We can represent you at the tribunal which is usually done via video call.

Many claims are resolved without the need for victims to attend a tribunal or give evidence.



We Understand That This Can Be Difficult

We recognise that discussing sexual abuse can be extremely difficult.

For many people, making a claim is not simply about compensation. It is about acknowledgement, recognition and taking a positive step forward.

Our role is to guide you through the process in a supportive and sensitive manner while ensuring that your claim is presented as effectively as possible.

You will be treated with dignity, respect and understanding at every stage.



Making a criminal injury compensation claim can feel overwhelming, particularly following a traumatic experience. At Chris Rudd Solicitors , we combine specialist CICA expertise with a compassionate, client focused approach. From your initial assessment through to the conclusion of your claim, our dedicated team will guide you every step of the way. We will ensure that you receive clear advice, professional support and the strongest possible representation.

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