TABLE OF CONTENT
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority: A History of CICA
According to the crime survey data from 2020, 1.6% of adults in the UK are victims of a violent crime. While these are just statistics, remember that every individual making up this stat is a human with their own traumatic story. Continue reading to learn more about the history of CICA, its purpose, and how it is used to help people get back to their pre-accident life.
Every type of injury can have a lasting impact on an individual, and when someone is the target of violent crimes, it can greatly disrupt their life. This is where the government comes in, striving to help people rebuild their lives.
What is CICA?
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, also known as CICA, is a governmental body that operates under the Ministry of Justice. CICA manages claims for victims of violent crimes. Every year, CICA handles over 30,000 claims. There are various categories of claims that come under CICA. Some of these are:
- Rape or sexual assault
- Threats that can cause mental trauma
- Arson
- Physical assault, including domestic abuse
A Brief History of CICA
A version of the CICA scheme began back in the 1940s when the state recognized the need to help those harmed by others. While New Zealand was the first country to come up with a scheme, it influenced other countries, particularly the UK.
CICA was established in 1964 under the Ministry of Justice with a vision to compensate victims of such crimes. Another version of the scheme was introduced in 1995, and since then, the body has gone through major changes.
But, the CICA scheme’s purpose remains the same; helping those who have been harmed through financial payout.
What is the CICA Scheme’s Purpose?
The CICA scheme gives payout in case of physical or mental injuries. The body was set up to help victims of abuse and violent crimes. The main aim of the CICA scheme is to help individuals involved in such crimes get payment for damages. This is especially important when victims have no way of holding those responsible for their injuries accountable.
Who Can Claim CICA Compensation?
CICA can be claimed by either:
- Victims of violent crimes
- Families of Victims who have died because of such a attack
There are a few other factors that come into play if you want to apply for CICA.
Location of the Incident
First, the location of the incident is important. The incident’s location has to be within England, Scotland, or Wales to be considered for compensation.
Reporting the Incident to The Police & Claiming Compensation within 2 Years
You have to report the incident to the police to be eligible, in addition to making your claim within a set time limit. According to Stephen Hudson,
“The CICA imposes a limitation period on compensation claims. You will generally be expected to start your claim within 2 years of your assault, unless you can present evidence of exceptional circumstances for not having done so.”
Circumstances Surrounding Injury
Another factor is the proof of being injured while taking a justified risk. If you or someone you love knowingly puts themselves in harm’s way, you are not eligible for CICA.
Circumstances Leading to Mental Trauma
You can claim for mental trauma or injury in case you witnessed a traumatic incident firsthand. However, the impact of the mental trauma must be disabling. This means that the trauma has impacted your daily life functioning. Only then will you be eligible for the payout. This proof can be taken from a psychiatrist after they conduct a thorough exam.
Final Thoughts
Going through a violent crime is a scary scenario and no amount of financial award can heal the trauma. However, if the history of CICA is any indication, getting the compensation helps victims build their lives and get back to their normal selves.
While a CICA claim may be the first step in your healing journey, it is essential to reach out to a medical professional who can help you further. If you have been a victim of a crime or experienced a traumatic incident firsthand, Concise Medico’s team of medical specialists can help. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority: A History of CICA
According to the crime survey data from 2020, 1.6% of adults in the UK are victims of a violent crime. While these are just statistics, remember that every individual making up this stat is a human with their own traumatic story. Continue reading to learn more about the history of CICA, its purpose, and how it is used to help people get back to their pre-accident life.
Every type of injury can have a lasting impact on an individual, and when someone is the target of violent crimes, it can greatly disrupt their life. This is where the government comes in, striving to help people rebuild their lives.
What is CICA?
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, also known as CICA, is a governmental body that operates under the Ministry of Justice. CICA manages claims for victims of violent crimes. Every year, CICA handles over 30,000 claims. There are various categories of claims that come under CICA. Some of these are:
- Rape or sexual assault
- Threats that can cause mental trauma
- Arson
- Physical assault, including domestic abuse
A Brief History of CICA
A version of the CICA scheme began back in the 1940s when the state recognized the need to help those harmed by others. While New Zealand was the first country to come up with a scheme, it influenced other countries, particularly the UK.
CICA was established in 1964 under the Ministry of Justice with a vision to compensate victims of such crimes. Another version of the scheme was introduced in 1995, and since then, the body has gone through major changes.
But, the CICA scheme’s purpose remains the same; helping those who have been harmed through financial payout.
What is the CICA Scheme’s Purpose?
The CICA scheme gives payout in case of physical or mental injuries. The body was set up to help victims of abuse and violent crimes. The main aim of the CICA scheme is to help individuals involved in such crimes get payment for damages. This is especially important when victims have no way of holding those responsible for their injuries accountable.
Who Can Claim CICA Compensation?
CICA can be claimed by either:
- Victims of violent crimes
- Families of Victims who have died because of such a attack
There are a few other factors that come into play if you want to apply for CICA.
Location of the Incident
First, the location of the incident is important. The incident’s location has to be within England, Scotland, or Wales to be considered for compensation.
Reporting the Incident to The Police & Claiming Compensation within 2 Years
You have to report the incident to the police to be eligible, in addition to making your claim within a set time limit. According to Stephen Hudson,
“The CICA imposes a limitation period on compensation claims. You will generally be expected to start your claim within 2 years of your assault, unless you can present evidence of exceptional circumstances for not having done so.”
Circumstances Surrounding Injury
Another factor is the proof of being injured while taking a justified risk. If you or someone you love knowingly puts themselves in harm’s way, you are not eligible for CICA.
Circumstances Leading to Mental Trauma
You can claim for mental trauma or injury in case you witnessed a traumatic incident firsthand. However, the impact of the mental trauma must be disabling. This means that the trauma has impacted your daily life functioning. Only then will you be eligible for the payout. This proof can be taken from a psychiatrist after they conduct a thorough exam.
Final Thoughts
Going through a violent crime is a scary scenario and no amount of financial award can heal the trauma. However, if the history of CICA is any indication, getting the compensation helps victims build their lives and get back to their normal selves.
While a CICA claim may be the first step in your healing journey, it is essential to reach out to a medical professional who can help you further. If you have been a victim of a crime or experienced a traumatic incident firsthand, Concise Medico’s team of medical specialists can help. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.
