Molly Newbery
Domestic abuse remains one of the most underreported crimes in the UK. Many victims feel trapped, frightened or unsure of their rights — but you may still be eligible for financial compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
CICA provides compensation for victims of violent crime, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and coercive or controlling behaviour.
If you’ve suffered physical, emotional, or sexual abuse — even if it happened years ago — you may be entitled to compensation.
You may also find our guide helpful: How to Make a CICA Claim.
Does CICA Cover Domestic Abuse?
Yes – CICA recognises domestic abuse as a crime of violence, including:
- Physical assault
- Sexual assault, marital rape or rape within a relationship
- Psychological trauma resulting from abuse
You can claim whether the abuse was:
- Multiple incidents reported together
- A repeated pattern of violence
- A long-term abusive relationship
- Historical abuse only recently disclosed
For more details on your rights, see Domestic Abuse Compensation Claims.
What You Can Claim Through CICA for Domestic Abuse
CICA provides compensation across several award categories depending on your injuries and losses.
1. Physical Injuries
Examples include:
- Cuts, bruising, fractures
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Burns or scalds
- Organ damage
- Loss of teeth
- Scarring or disfigurement
CICA uses a tariff-based system, awarding higher compensation for more serious injuries.
2. Psychological Injuries & PTSD
Many victims develop long-term psychological trauma, such as:
- PTSD or C-PTSD
- Depression & anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Sleep disturbances
- Hypervigilance
- Emotional numbing
- Suicidal thoughts
CICA does award compensation for psychological injury alone, provided you have a formal diagnosis from a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Learn more: PTSD & Trauma Compensation Claims.
3. Loss of Earnings
If abuse has affected your ability to work, you may claim compensation for:
- Short-term time off
- Long-term inability to work
- Mental health conditions preventing employment
You usually need proof of stable employment for at least 3 years pre-incident.
4. Special Expenses
These cover essential costs directly resulting from the abuse, including:
- Medical aids or mobility equipment
- Property damage caused during incidents
- Home adaptations
- Therapy or counselling not available on the NHS
These must be necessary, reasonable and linked to the crime.
5. Sexual Assault & Rape Compensation
Domestic abuse often involves sexual violence, including:
- Sexual assault
- Repeated assaults
- Marital rape
- Pregnancy resulting from rape
- STIs
- Severe psychological trauma
Victims of partner or spousal rape absolutely qualify for compensation.
More details: Sexual Assault CICA Claims.
Can You Claim CICA for Coercive Control?
No, unless there is physical and sexual abuse attached to it.
CICA recognises forms such as:
- Isolation from friends or family
- Financial control
- Monitoring of devices or messages
- Restricting movement
- Manipulation and intimidation
- Repeated threats
CICA Time Limits for Domestic Abuse Claims
Normally, you must apply within 2 years.
However, CICA allows extensions in domestic abuse cases where:
- You were too afraid to report the offender
- Trauma prevented you from acting sooner
- You were manipulated or controlled
- You feared retaliation
- You were a minor at the time of the abuse
- You have recently disclosed historic abuse
The time limit is flexible if you can demonstrate “exceptional circumstances.”
What Evidence Do You Need for a Domestic Abuse CICA Claim?
CICA understands that victims may not have extensive evidence. Still, strong documentation helps your case.
✓ Police Evidence
- Crime reference number
- Statements
- Records of reports or domestic incidents
✓ Medical Evidence
- GP records
- Hospital treatment
- Mental health assessments
- Therapy or counselling notes
✓ Psychological Diagnosis
A report from a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist is ideal.
✓ Supporting Documents
- Social services involvement
- IDVA/ISVA or refuge support letters
- Photos of injuries
- Employer absence notes
- Statement from family/friends
How CICA Judges Domestic Abuse Claims
CICA considers:
- The seriousness of the abuse
- Duration and pattern of the behaviour
- Long-term physical or psychological harm
- Whether you reported the abuse (and reasons for delay if you didn’t)
- Medical and police evidence
- Credibility and consistency of statements.
It recognises that victims often conceal abuse due to fear or coercion.
Historic Domestic Abuse Claims
Many victims come forward years – even decades – later.
You may still be eligible if:
- You can explain why you did not report earlier
- Evidence still exists for CICA to assess the case
- You have a current psychological diagnosis connected to the abuse
We see many successful historic claims every year.
Why Domestic Abuse CICA Claims Are Often Rejected - And How to Avoid it
Common reasons include:
❌ Lack of police report
❌ Claim made after 2 years without explanation
❌ No psychiatric diagnosis
❌ Inconsistent statements
❌ Insufficient medical evidence
With the right preparation — or an appeal — many rejected claims can be overturned.
Do You Need a Solicitor for a Domestic Abuse CICA Claim?
You can apply on your own, but domestic abuse claims are emotionally difficult and often complex.
A specialist solicitor can help you:
- Gather evidence
- Prepare a strong psychological injury case
- Argue for time-limit extensions
- Maximise your compensation
- Appeal wrongful refusals
Our trauma-informed team handles these cases sensitively and confidentially.
👉 Speak to our CICA team
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Claim if the Abuser was my Partner?
Yes. CICA covers all forms of domestic abuse, including partner or ex-partner violence.
What if the Offender was Never Charged or Convicted?
You can still claim – CICA only requires that the crime was reported.
What if I Reported the Abuse Late?
You may still be eligible if you have an exceptional reason, such as coercion or fear.
Can I Claim for Psychological Injury Alone?
Yes – provided you have a formal diagnosis.
Conclusion - You Deserve Support and May be Entitled to Compensation
Domestic abuse leaves lasting physical and emotional scars.
CICA compensation can support your recovery, cover losses, and acknowledge the harm you’ve suffered.
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