Claim compensation if you were the victim of a violent crime

Skip to contents of guide

If you’re a victim who lived with the attacker before 1 October 1979

The deadline to apply for compensation was 13 June 2021 if you were a victim of violent crime and:

  • the crime happened between 1 August 1964 and 30 September 1979
  • you lived with the attacker as a family member at the time of the incident (this was known as the ‘same roof’ rule)

Claims made after the deadline

You may still be able to claim if you can show you were unable to apply before 13 June 2021 and you either:

  • were a child at the time of the crime
  • could not apply earlier because of exceptional circumstances (you must provide enough evidence so your claim can be decided without further extensive enquiries)

If you’ve made a claim before

If you’ve made a claim before but it was refused or reduced because of the ‘same roof’ rule you can reapply for compensation if you’re eligible. The ‘same roof’ rule does not apply anymore.

How to make a claim

You can make a claim online or on the phone by calling Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). You can also call CICA to arrange a time for someone to take your claim over the phone.

CICA
Inside the UK: 0300 003 3601
Outside the UK: +44 (0)203 684 2517
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 8.30am to 5pm
Wednesday, 8.30am to 3pm
Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 0300 003 3601
Find out about call charges