5 things you might not know about abuse compensation claims

The press has been plagued with abuse scandals and an awareness of the devastating effect this has on victims for the rest of their lives.  If any good is to come out of this saga, it will hopefully be the encouragement of victims of abuse to speak out and obtain the support they need.

For those who are a victim of abuse, a personal injury claim could be a step towards moving on; providing the means of obtaining support, therapy and protection for their future:-

1. Organisations can often be financially responsible for abusive acts committed by those under their control – Employers, local authorities and hospital trusts are regularly forced to pay compensation to victims.  Employers can be held liable for the actions of their staff, and local councils, social services and hospitals can be held responsible for the welfare of those in their care, particularly in circumstances where the victim is vulnerable.
2. The abuser does not need to have been charged or convicted with the offence for a claim for damages to be successful – Cases are assessed on a case by case basis and if there is evidence to prove that it was more likely than not that the abuse took place, then you might be able to claim.
3. Even if the abuse took place a long time ago, there could still be a claim – Whilst the basic rule is that claims should be brought within 3 years of the abuse, there are circumstances where the deadline for bringing a claim can be lifted.
4. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (“the CICA”) can compensate victims of abuse, especially when a civil claim cannot be brought against another organisation or government body – this is a public fund designed to compensate victims of crime.
5. Novum Law has a team of specialist solicitors who will assist with your abuse claim sensitively and confidentially – on a “No Win No Fee” basis with no financial risk to you.