Claiming after a criminal injury in the UK
You may be eligible for compensation if you or someone you know has been hurt in a violent crime.
You must report the crime to the police in order to claim compensation. Otherwise, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) will not be able to make a payment.
Claim compensation for a criminal injury on GOV.UK.
Get help with your application
Contact the CICA helpline for help with your application if you:
- do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device
- do not have internet access
You can:
- call them on 0300 003 3601 from inside the UK
- call them on +44 (0)203 684 2517 from outside the UK
- use Relay UK if you cannot hear or speak on the phone - 18001 0300 003 3601
The CICA helpline is open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 3pm.
You can also get advice from a law centre or welfare rights organisation.
If you belong to a trade union, they may be able to help. Your local citizens advice bureau can tell you how the scheme works.
General enquiries
Use the CICA contact form for any other questions about the claims process. You'll usually get a reply within 10 working days.
If your application is turned down
If your application is turned down, you can appeal.
Visit GOV.UK to find out how to appeal to the criminal injuries compensation tribunal.
Further information
Read GOV.UK's guide to criminal injuries compensation for more detailed information on eligibility and how your claim will be handled.