Crime Victims' Payouts Frozen for 30 Years

A 30-year stagnation in compensation limits for victims of serious crime is drawing sharp criticism from campaigners. The current maximum payout, established in April 1996 by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), stands at £500,000. This sum is intended to support individuals in England, Scotland, and Wales who have sustained life-altering injuries such as paralysis or brain damage.

New analysis indicates that if this £500,000 limit had been adjusted annually for inflation over the past three decades, its value today would surpass £1 million. This stark discrepancy raises significant anxieties among survivors and their legal representatives, who fear the funds will become inadequate for covering lifetime care needs.

Victims like Craig Lewis-Williams, who suffered severe brain damage and paralysis after an attack in November 2021, face daunting futures. His wife, Anna, worries about the ability of the maximum payout to cover ongoing expenses, including essential replacements like his wheelchair and adapted vehicle, over the next 25 to 30 years.

Similarly, Nichola expressed concerns for her adopted teenage daughter, Lou, who has learning difficulties due to prenatal drug exposure. While Lou is attending a mainstream school, assessments suggest she will face long-term challenges in maintaining employment, making the compensation's longevity critical for her future financial stability.

Lawyers, including former Association of Personal Injury Lawyers president Neil Sugarman, described the 30-year freeze as an "insult" to those with catastrophic injuries. The Ministry of Justice stated that over £164 million was disbursed through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme in 2024-25, emphasizing ongoing support for survivors.