Aggravated Burglary – Am I eligible to claim compensation under the CICA scheme?

Being a victim of a burglary is always going to have an effect from a psychological aspect. However, it is when these crimes go wrong that unfortunately physical injuries can occur as well.

On the 29^th November 2021 Mike Smith, one of the directors for Keighley Cougars Rugby League Club, was attacked by an intruder in an aggravated burglary. Mike sustained a serious head injury from being attacked with what police believe to be a metal bracket.

As a result of this attack, Mike is now having to undergo rehabilitation therapy in order to begin to recover from this incident.

Could compensation be awarded in this instance?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme 2012 is there for victims of crime who have suffered physical and/or psychological injuries as a result.

In relation to Mike, first of all, the CICA would make an award of £1,500 for any head scarring that was sustained from the incident, as long as photographs of said scarring could be provided.

In regard to brain damage as a result of a head injury, the CICA scheme splits this into categories with accompanying awards. These awards can range between £1,500 – £250,000 in the most severe of cases. The CICA would request medical records and/or medical reports in order to confirm the severity of these injuries, enabling them to assess and determine the appropriate award.

Am I eligible for compensation?

If you meet the below criteria and have been victim of a crime resulting in a physical and/or psychological injury, you may be eligible for compensation under the CICA scheme:

• The incident must have happened no more than 2 years ago
• The incident was reported to the police as soon as possible and you have cooperated with the police investigation (i.e. providing a statement and pressing charges against the assailant)
• You must not have any unspent criminal convictions

Our CICA department at Oakwood Solicitors can provide free advice as to whether we can assist with a criminal injuries claim.

Further reading

To learn more about the Criminal Injury Compensation Authority, read our guide to the CICA here.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

For any information about bringing a CICA claim, get in touch today for a free consultation. Choose one of the methods on the right-hand side of this page, or call us on 0113 200 9787 to find out how we can help you.