Anyone who has suffered from a crime will know how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath. Apart from the personal trauma that any victim goes through, there are also many other consequences of being the victim of a crime. They might include having to spend money on repairing property damage or even moving home because of an unsafe environment. In some cases, victims may also have to take time off work or pay for therapy sessions as a result of what happened. There are various support services available to help victims deal with these challenges, but many won’t cover specific costs related to being the victim of a crime. However, there is a financial incentive called Criminal Injuries Compensation that can make up for part of these expenses and help victims move on from what happened. Keep reading for more information about this program and how you can apply if you are a victim of crime.
What is Criminal Injuries Compensation?
Criminal Injuries Compensation is a program run by the government that provides financial compensation to victims of violent crime, such as sexual or child abuse claims. It is also a tax-free payment, so you don’t need to declare it. However, you will need to meet certain criteria before you can apply. If you meet the eligibility criteria listed below, you may be able to receive compensation.
- Direct victim.
- The incident occurred in England, Scotland, or Wales.
- Witnessed the incident.
- Present in the aftermath of the incident.
- Permanent resident of the UK.
- Reported the incident to the police.
Who Can Apply for Criminal Injuries Compensation?
In order to be eligible to receive Criminal Injuries Compensation, you must be able to prove that you have been the victim of a crime. In most cases, this will mean reporting the crime to the police and obtaining a crime reference number before you begin your claim. You may also be asked to attend a medical examination in order to determine the extent of your injuries, along with any corroborating evidence. It’s important to remember that you must report the crime as soon as possible after it happens so the authorities can investigate. If you wait too long, the authorities may not be able to pursue a conviction against the perpetrator on your behalf. Criminal Injuries Compensation covers the victims of many different crimes, including sexual abuse claims. If you’re looking for more information on beginning a claim and expert advice if you have been a victim of this type of crime, head over to Hugh James, who are specialist abuse solicitors.
Other Help Resources for Crime Victims
In addition to Criminal Injuries Compensation, there are various other resources available to help victims of crime. Being the victim of a crime is never easy, and the aftermath can often be as traumatic as the initial incident itself. As a result, there are many charities that provide support for victims of crime and their families, as well as the government-run Victim Support Scheme. Reach out and ask for support during what is a difficult time.
