A recent survey carried out by Survivors Against Terror revealed worrying issues survivors of terrorist attacks have encountered during the CICA (Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority) claim process. 

The CICA is a government body providing compensation for those who have suffered physical or mental injuries as a result of violent crime.

Multiple clients instruct the Anthony Collins team to run CICA claims. The team in our Macclesfield office mainly deal with claims involving rape and sexual abuse however the overall CICA process is similar for every type of violent crime.

As someone with experience dealing regularly with the CICA, I must say that I am not surprised by the results of this survey. Findings show that two-thirds of survivors felt the scheme was 'unfair and unreasonable' whilst more than half found it difficult to submit their claim and found the information provided by the CICA to be difficult to understand.

Survivors found the process degrading due to having to prove their injuries to the CICA repeatedly. Instructing a solicitor takes this burden away from victims as the firm would provide the CICA with detailed evidence regarding the victim's current condition and prognosis. 

Survivors felt the government body lacked empathy. By instructing a solicitor, victims don’t need to deal with the CICA directly. The empathy the victims need would be provided by their solicitor, making the process much less daunting. Furthermore, having a singular point of contact is paramount to victims as they often need someone they can trust during this challenging time. 

The CICA base claims on a scheme which places all injuries into tariffs. The CICA assess the injuries suffered and matches them to a tariff. The amount associated with the relevant tariff is then awarded. The scheme also allows for claims to be made for loss of earnings, care and assistance and special expenses as a result of the violent act. Without the assistance of a solicitor who can organise evidence such as medical reports and schedules of loss, it is likely victims will be 'shortchanged' by the CICA as they may be unaware of the various heads of claim available.

For example, the BBC article describes how a survivor who suffered life-changing injuries which left her housebound was offered just £25,000 by the CICA. The victim submitted her own claim in this instance. Was she aware she could make a claim for past and future loss of earnings or for care and assistance? As solicitors, we would have supplied the CICA with a detailed bundle of evidence to secure the maximum amount of compensation.

The findings of the survey were presented to the Government who said that 'more must be done... to better address victims' needs'. 

As a firm acting for those going through the CICA claims process, we can provide the clarity, empathy and efficiency that these victims need during the most challenging time in their lives. The process can be quite long and very frustrating, however, it is possible for this process to be made much easier for victims.