Compensation for child abuse
At Nelsons we recognise how difficult and painful it is to seek legal advice about claiming compensation for child abuse, whether you were abused as a child or are claiming on behalf of a child who has been abused.
We have a team of expert child abuse solicitors who will listen to your story and advise on the best course of action available to you. Our team are experienced in dealing with abuse claims and your case will be handled in a professional but compassionate and discreet manner.
Who can I make a child abuse claim against?
Abuse, whether sexual, physical or psychological, is a criminal act and only the criminal law can punish abusers, who may not have the financial means to pay compensation.
However, if the abuse took place whilst you were in care, at school or if you were abused by a person in a position of trust, you may be able to bring a compensation claim against the institution or local authority through the civil courts.
To establish liability it must be proved that the local authority or institution breached its duty of care towards you and this led to some injury – either physical, psychological or both.
There are time limits in place for bringing a claim through the civil courts and we can advise you further on these.
Criminal Injuries Compensation
If you do not have a claim against a local authority or other institution, you may still be able to claim compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
To make an application to the CICA you must show that a criminal act took place in the UK and that you are eligible to make a claim. The abuse must also have been reported to the police.
There are time limits for making a claim to the CICA, so you should not delay in seeking advice. For more information about criminal injury claims, please click here.
Making a claim
If you have a case and would like to proceed, our child abuse solicitors can advise on the funding options available to you.
Our team will keep you fully informed at all stages of the process and will always be on hand to answer any questions you may have.
For a confidential discussion and further advice, contact Helen Froggatt on 01332 614 506 or Dianne Collins on 01332 614509, or via our online contact form.
