If you’ve been sexually assaulted or abused, you could be entitled to sexual abuse compensation through the CICA scheme. This UK-wide guide from Winston Solicitors shares 5 expert tips to help you claim the maximum award with confidence, care and complete confidentiality. But you don’t have to just take our word for it. We have over 3,000 five-star reviews from happy clients.
- Get expert CICA claim guidance (UK)
- Maximise your compensation payout
- Understand police vs. medical evidence
- Claim with no win no fee support
- Receive confidential legal advice
- Trusted by 3,000+ UK clients
Sexual Abuse Compensation
If you’ve been sexually assaulted or abused, you deserve support and fair sexual abuse compensation. At Winston Solicitors, we’ve helped thousands of survivors across the UK claim what they’re entitled to with care, confidentiality and compassion.
With over 3,000 five-star reviews, our experienced CICA solicitors work tirelessly to help you achieve the maximum compensation available under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme.
Every survivor’s story is different, but every survivor deserves justice
Stacey Flegg, Head of CICA Claims at Winston Solicitors
Tip 1: Report and Record Everything Early
Your police report is often the key piece of evidence in a sexual assault or abuse compensation claim.
Even if there’s no medical evidence, a detailed, consistent police statement can make the difference between a lower award and the maximum CICA payment for rape or penetrative assault.
If you felt unable to report right away, don’t worry - you can still claim once the report is made. What matters is that you’ve told the police what happened, in your own words.
Tip 2: Provide a Full and Consistent Statement
The CICA reviews police reports in detail to assess how your experience is classified and compensated. A full, consistent statement gives them confidence in your claim and helps you receive the award you deserve.
Our solicitors can guide you through this step, helping you write clearly and confidently, so your story is heard and respected.
We take time to guide every client through what to include. No one should face this alone.
Stacey Flegg, Head of CICA Claims at Winston Solicitors
Tip 3: Know When to Use Medical or Counselling Evidence
Not every survivor has visible injuries. However, if your assault caused physical harm, psychological trauma, or ongoing therapy, this evidence can strengthen your claim and potentially increase your award.
We’ll help you decide whether to include GP records, counselling reports, or psychological assessments, and explain how these documents can support your CICA application.
You’ve Been Through Enough! Let Us Help
Revisiting what happened is never easy. That’s why we make the process as gentle and supportive as possible. You can speak to a specialist solicitor confidentially. No call centres, no judgment, just expert legal advice.
Start your confidential claim today. Call 0113 320 5000 or leave a message for free, no-obligation help.
Tip 4: Get Expert Advice Before Submitting Your CICA Claim
The CICA scheme has 37 different compensation levels, depending on your age, the type of assault, and your evidence.
Choosing the wrong tariff early on can reduce your payment or delay your claim.
With more than 20 years of experience, Winston Solicitors will guide you through every step. We can often do this on a no win, no fee basis, so you don’t pay unless we succeed.
Tip 5: Use the Correct CICA Category and Evidence
Knowing which CICA tariff category applies can mean thousands more in compensation.
Awards range from £1,000 to £44,000, depending on how the assault is defined and evidenced.
Our CICA compensation calculator can estimate what you could receive. We’ll make sure your claim matches the correct category for the highest possible award.
Explore our full Sexual Abuse Compensation Guide for more detail on claim types and categories.
Eligibility and Time Limits for CICA Claims
You can usually claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority if:
- The assault happened in England, Wales, or Scotland.
- We also deal with NI applications through a different scheme - the Northern Ireland Compensation Services (NICS).
- It was reported to the police
- You applied within 2 years of reporting (exceptions apply for children or trauma-related delays)
If you’re unsure whether you’re still eligible, our solicitors can review your case and request a time limit extension if appropriate.
How to Claim Sexual Abuse Compensation (Step-by-Step)
- Report the assault to the police as soon as you feel ready.
- Contact Winston Solicitors for confidential legal advice.
- Submit your CICA application with our specialist help.
- Gather evidence - police report, statement, and any medical or counselling records.
- Await your award decision - we’ll handle updates, appeals and communication for you.
Every step is private, supportive, and focused on securing your maximum award.
Why Choose Winston Solicitors?
- Over 3,000 five-star reviews nationwide
- UK-wide support for victims of sexual abuse and assault
- No win, no fee representation
- 20+ years’ experience handling CICA compensation claims
- Empathetic, confidential, survivor-focused care
I had a great experience with Winston Solicitors. They were professional, supportive, and kept me informed throughout the entire process.
Client, England
Ready to Talk?
You’ve already taken the hardest step - reaching out for help. Now, let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call 0113 320 5000 or leave a message for your free, confidential case review.
We’ll explain your options, estimate your compensation, and help you claim the maximum award available with complete privacy and care.
Usually, you must report the assault to the police before you can claim through the CICA.
However, if you were unable to report it straight away (for example, due to trauma, age or fear) you may still be able to apply later.
Our solicitors can help explain your situation to the CICA and request an exception.
The CICA’s normal time limit is two years from the date you reported the crime to the police.
If the assault happened when you were a child, or if trauma delayed your ability to come forward, this time limit can often be extended.
Winston Solicitors will help you show why your sexual abuse claim should still be accepted.
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority uses a tariff system with awards ranging from £1,000 to £44,000 for sexual assault.
The exact amount depends on the type of assault, your age at the time, and the evidence available.
We can help you estimate your likely award using our free CICA compensation calculator.
Not always.
Many survivors receive compensation based on the police report alone.
However, if you have medical or counselling evidence, including it may strengthen your claim and help you secure a higher award.
Yes.
You can still claim through the CICA scheme even if no one was charged or convicted, as long as the police have evidence showing a crime took place.
Our legal team will help you present your statement clearly and show that you meet the CICA’s “balance of probability” standard.
Most straightforward claims take around 12 to 18 months, though some are resolved faster.
If extra evidence is needed, the process can take longer. We’ll keep you updated at every stage and push for a prompt decision.
Absolutely.
Your details and your story are treated with complete confidentiality.
Only your legal team and the CICA will see your information, and nothing is shared without your consent.
We’ll review your case in detail, help you prepare your statement, collect any useful evidence, and make sure you’re placed in the highest CICA tariff that applies to your situation.
We handle everything on a no win, no fee basis and provide full emotional support throughout your claim.
