Talking about abuse isn’t easy. You might not know where to start, whether you can claim or if it’s too late. If you’re considering an abuse compensation claim, you can get confidential advice and take things at your own pace.

An abuse claim allows you to seek compensation for the harm you’ve experienced. This can be done through a civil claim against a person or organisation, or through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), a government scheme for victims of violent crime.

Whether the abuse happened recently or many years ago, you may still be able to claim. Speaking to experienced solicitors can help you understand your options clearly and in a way that feels right for you.

Types of abuse compensation claims

You might be able to claim for:

• Sexual abuse
• Rape or sexual assault
• Physical abuse
• Emotional or psychological abuse
• Domestic abuse
• Child abuse

Abuse can involve a single incident or repeated behaviour over time, and many survivors experience more than one type.

It can also happen in places where you should have been safe, such as:

• Schools, care homes and foster care
• Hospitals or medical settings
• Workplaces or organisations
• Religious or community environments

Some cases might involve an institutional abuse claim or a local authority abuse claim, particularly where safeguarding failures occurred.

Can I claim for historic abuse?

You may still be able to make a claim even if the abuse happened many years ago.

For CICA claims, you generally need to apply within two years of reporting the abuse to the police. However, this time limit can sometimes be extended in exceptional circumstances, especially where the abuse has had a long-term impact on your health.

Many people aren’t ready to come forward straight away. That doesn’t prevent you from seeking advice later. If you’re unsure whether you can still claim, it’s always worth asking.

Do I need evidence to make an abuse claim?

You don’t need to have all the evidence before speaking to a solicitor. Part of our role is helping you understand what is available and what is required. Evidence might include:

• A police report and Police Crime Number
• Medical or counselling records
• Witness statements
• Records from schools, care providers or authorities
• Your own account of what happened

For a CICA abuse claim, a Police Crime Number is usually required. This is simply the reference number given when the incident is reported to the police.

You also don’t need to know the name of the person responsible to make a claim.

Civil claims vs CICA claims explained

There are a few key differences between civil claims and CICA claims:

Civil claims

These are made against a person or organisation responsible for the abuse, or for failing to prevent it. This could include schools, care providers, religious organisations or local authorities.

CICA claims

CICA is a government scheme that compensates victims of violent crime. This is often used where a civil claim isn’t possible.

Which route is right for you?

This depends on your circumstances, including who may be responsible and what evidence is available. Our expert solicitors can explain your options and help you decide how to proceed.

How to make an abuse compensation claim

The process is designed to be as straightforward as possible:

1. You contact a solicitor for a confidential discussion
2. Your case is assessed
3. Evidence is gathered
4. The claim is submitted
5. A settlement is negotiated or the case proceeds if needed

Most claims are resolved without going to court. Throughout the process, you will be supported and kept informed.

How much does it cost to make an abuse claim?

Our abuse compensation solicitors handle claims on a no win, no fee basis. This means you do not usually pay upfront legal fees, and fees are typically only payable if the claim succeeds.

Will my abuse claim be confidential?

Abuse claims are handled with strict confidentiality. Your privacy will be respected at every stage, and you’ll be supported in a way that allows you to speak openly without pressure.

How long does an abuse compensation claim take?

There is no fixed timeframe. Some claims are resolved within months, while others take longer depending on the complexity and the evidence involved.

Your solicitor will aim to progress your case as efficiently as possible while making sure it’s handled properly.

How we help

If you’re considering an abuse compensation claim, you don’t have to commit to anything straight away. You can simply ask questions, take time to understand your options and decide what feels right for you.

Whether you are looking into a historic abuse compensation claim, a child abuse compensation claim or a CICA abuse claim, support is available.

Get in touch to speak to our specialist abuse compensation solicitors today for free, confidential advice.

Why choose Express Solicitors?

With over 25 years of experience in handling personal injury claims, Express Solicitors is here to support you through your abuse claim. Our mission is to get you the justice and compensation you deserve for your suffering.

Our no-win, no-fee agreement means you can pursue compensation without worrying about upfront costs or legal fees. We’re proud of our “Excellent” rating on Trustpilot and our accreditation by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), reflecting our commitment to professional integrity and client satisfaction.

Don’t wait. Reach out to us today to start your abuse compensation claim and find out how much you might be entitled to.