Get financial support as a victim of crime

You can apply for financial help if you have to take time off low-paid work because you have been the victim of a violent crime.  

You can get help for up to 25 days from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) hardship fund if you are eligible.  

You might still get help if your injuries are not severe enough to qualify for the criminal compensation scheme.  

Eligibility  

You can apply if you: 

  • earn less than £111 per week  

  • do not get Statutory Sick Pay or equivalent sick pay scheme run by your employer 

  • could not work for at least 7 consecutive days as a result of the crime 

  • do not have any unspent convictions that resulted in a custodial sentence or community order 

You normally need to report your injuries to the police within 48 hours and CICA need to receive your application within 8 weeks of the crime.  

How to apply 

Contact Victim Support. You will need:

  • the unique police crime reference number 

  • a doctor’s certificate (fit note) showing you have been unable to work for at least 7 consecutive days as a result of the crime 

  • a pay slip or letter from your employer showing your average weekly earnings 

  • a copy of your most recent tax return if you are self-employed 

Victim Support 

Telephone: 0845 30 30 900 

Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm 

Saturday and Sunday, 9am to 7pm 

Bank holidays, 9am to 5pm 

Find out more about the Hardship Fund and Victim Support.  

Additional information on getting financial support as a victim of a crime can be found on GOV.UK's website.