Receiving a rejection letter from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) can be a devastating blow—especially after coming forward about past trauma.

Recently, we have noticed an increasing trend of the CICA making pre-emptive decisions on compensation claims. Driven by high application volumes and the pressure to clear caseloads, the authority frequently issues early refusals before the full details and circumstances of a case have been properly investigated. Because the CICA scheme is notoriously rigid, strict application of its rules often leads to harsh, unfair outcomes if left unchallenged.

However, a initial refusal is not the end of the road. Here is how Winston Solicitors successfully challenged a CICA decision and secured a £22,000 award for our client.

The Initial Refusal: A Pre-Emptive Decision

We were approached by a survivor of serious historic sexual abuse. Their claim was initially rejected. In our eyes, this was a pre-emptive decision made by the CICA.

The CICA based its decision on police reports showing that, while an allegation had been made, the criminal investigation was closed with "no further action" due to evidential difficulties and a lack of supporting medical records. CICA concluded that there was insufficient evidence to prove a "crime of violence" had occurred under Annex B of the CICA Scheme.

Without specialist legal support, most applicants facing this response feel disheartened and confused. When the CICA claims to have already consulted the police, applicants often assume there is no further way forward.

How Winston Solicitors Built a Winning Review

Recognising that our client’s original allegations were detailed and credible, we stepped in to challenge the refusal with the following:

1. Independent Third-Party Enquiries: Rather than accepting the police summary at face value, we contacted third parties directly—including social services and police representatives—asking targeted questions to corroborate our client’s account and establish credibility.
2. Evidential Reconstruction: We gathered supporting statements to fill the gaps in the medical record.
3. Strategic Drafting: We submitted a structured review application, directly refuting the CICA's arguments by combining the newly gathered evidence with precise references to CICA Scheme guidelines.

The Outcome

As a direct result of our review application, the CICA reversed its initial rejection and awarded our client £22,000.00.

Navigating the legalities of CICA Annex B guidelines and gathering third-party evidence requires specialist experience. If your CICA claim has been turned down or you need guidance on making an application, having the right legal team in your corner can make all the difference.

Have you had a CICA claim rejected?

Contact our CICA specialists at Winston Solicitors today to discuss how we can help you challenge the decision and secure the compensation you deserve.