Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivor Compensation of £22,000 Secured by Winston Solicitors Client

A True Story from a Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivor 

For a childhood sexual abuse survivor, speaking out can take decades. Mrs S*’s story shows the strength it takes to come forward and how the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) can offer crucial recognition and support, even years after the events took place.

If you are a survivor of childhood sexual abuse call 0113 320 5000

Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivor Compensation after Decades of Silence and a Brave Step Forward

As a young child, Mrs S suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a family member. The abuse continued over a number of years. However, fear, confusion, and the pressure to stay silent kept her from telling anyone. Tragically, this is a common experience for childhood sexual abuse survivors.

It wasn’t until Mrs S reached her late forties that she felt strong enough to speak out. Encouraged by the need for justice and healing, she disclosed the abuse to some chosen family members. Sadly, not all believed her. Nevertheless, she bravely reported the abuse to the police, more than 30 years after the incidents had taken place.

The Long-Term Impact on Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivors

The abuse Mrs S experienced had a lasting impact on her mental health. Throughout adulthood, she faced significant struggles, including periods of post-natal depression following the births of her children. Later, she was also diagnosed with schizophrenia.

These mental health issues are not uncommon among childhood sexual abuse survivors. Trauma experienced in early life can profoundly affect a person’s emotional well-being, relationships, and ability to cope with life’s challenges.

Coming forward to report the crimes took immense courage. It represented not only a bid for justice but also an important step in Mrs S reclaiming her voice after decades of silence.

Police Investigation and Criminal Proceedings

After Mrs S reported the abuse, the police launched a lengthy and thorough investigation, working closely with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to build a case. Eventually, her abuser was charged with multiple counts of sexual assault and rape.

Although charges were brought, the court process proved slow. The case was listed for trial but was not scheduled to be heard until a year after the charges were made, with a court date set for 2025.

Importantly, when pursuing a CICA claim, it is a requirement that the crime has been reported to the police and that the survivor has fully cooperated with the investigation and any legal proceedings.

Making a CICA Claim - Acting Without Delay

Many childhood sexual abuse survivors believe they must wait until after a criminal trial has concluded before making a CICA claim. However, this is not the case. Applications should be made as soon as reasonably practicable, and generally no later than two years after reporting the crime to the police, even if the trial has not yet taken place.

Understanding this, Mrs S instructed Winston Solicitors to assist her with making her CICA claim. Our specialist team worked with Mrs S to prepare a strong application. We obtained comprehensive medical evidence demonstrating the severe and lasting mental health impact that the abuse had caused. Despite the ongoing criminal proceedings, we were able to secure Mrs S’s compensation award without the need to wait for the outcome of the trial.

The CICA awarded Mrs S £22,000 in recognition of the harm she had suffered.

Understanding CICA Time Limits for Abuse Claims

There is often confusion around the time limits for making a CICA claim, particularly when the abuse took place many years earlier. Here is what childhood sexual abuse survivors need to know:

• If the crime happened to an adult, the claim should be made within two years of the crime.
• However, if the crime happened to a child, the two-year time limit starts from the childhood sexual abuse survivor’s 18th birthday. In other words, they have until the day before their 20th birthday to submit a claim.
• For historic abuse where the crime is reported to the police much later in life, the two-year time limit starts from the date the crime is reported. As opposed to the date from which the abuse occurred.
• The CICA can sometimes accept applications made after the two-year period, but only where there are exceptional circumstances that made it impossible for the childhood sexual abuse survivor to apply sooner.

Every childhood sexual abuse survivor’s situation is unique. If you’re unsure whether you can make a claim, it's vital to seek advice as soon as possible.

Why Acting Early Matters

Mrs S’s case shows why childhood sexual abuse survivors should not delay in seeking legal advice about a CICA claim. With the right support, it is possible to secure an award even while criminal proceedings are ongoing. Waiting unnecessarily can complicate the claim process and potentially impact eligibility.

By instructing a specialist solicitor early, childhood sexual abuse survivors can get expert advice on eligibility and ensure strict deadlines are met. We can also help to present strong evidence to maximise childhood sexual abuse survivor compensation. This means that we are there to support our clients during what can be an emotionally difficult process. We provide compassionate, clear guidance at every step.

Supporting Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivors Beyond Compensation

Receiving compensation is not just about the financial award. It’s about acknowledgement, justice, and rebuilding lives. For Mrs S, securing her CICA award allowed her to move forward with renewed strength as she faced the forthcoming criminal trial.

Our work doesn’t stop with securing compensation. Where appropriate, we can also assist childhood sexual abuse survivors in setting up personal injury trusts to protect their award, as well as drafting Wills and planning for the future.  

Childhood sexual abuse survivor compensation payments can help with accessing further support on the journey to recovery.

How Winston Solicitors Can Help

If you have suffered abuse, whether physical, sexual, or both, and are considering making a CICA claim, we are here to help. We understand that making that first call can be daunting. That’s why we promise to listen without judgment and guide you through the process with sensitivity and expertise.

Our CICA team has extensive experience handling historic abuse cases. We are proud to have supported many childhood sexual abuse survivors in securing life-changing compensation and a sense of justice.

You do not have to face this alone.

Contact Winston Solicitors today for a confidential discussion by calling 0113 320 5000. Alternatively, you can email @email

Your voice matters. We are here to help you be heard.

*Name changed for anonymity