Historical Abuse Claims,
Belfast, Northern Ireland

With Our Personal Injury Specialists

Can You Seek Compensation for Historical Abuse Claims in Northern Ireland?

If you have experienced historic sexual abuse, you may be eligible for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) in Northern Ireland. O’Neill Solicitors specializes in assisting survivors of historic sexual abuse in seeking justice and compensation. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and are here to guide you through the legal process.

What Qualifies as Historical Abuse, Belfast, Northern Ireland?

Historic sexual abuse typically refers to incidents that occurred during childhood and are now being reported by adults. It is sometimes referred to as “non-recent abuse.” Childhood abuse can be profoundly traumatic, and it is essential that survivors have a means of seeking compensation for the harm they have endured. Claims for historic sexual abuse are processed under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme, which also covers physical childhood abuse cases.

How Does the Process Work?

To be eligible for compensation, the abuse must be reported to the police, who will investigate the allegations and gather evidence. There is no requirement for a court judgment or trial for compensation to be awarded. If the police investigation leads to a referral to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and a decision to prosecute, this is generally sufficient for compensation to be granted.

In some cases, especially with historic abuse cases, the perpetrator may have passed away or the case may not go to trial. In such instances, compensation can still be pursued. The key requirement is full cooperation with the police investigation and the legal process, even if the case does not proceed to court.

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Historical Abuse FAQs

It’s entirely natural to feel nervous about pursuing compensation for historic sexual abuse. Our compassionate team at O’Neill Solicitors has extensive experience supporting survivors through this challenging process. We understand the concerns you may have about family, memories, and interactions with the police. We are here to share our knowledge and guide you with empathy and professionalism.

The duration of a historic abuse claim can vary based on the availability of police evidence and whether you meet the eligibility criteria. Claims based on police evidence alone typically progress quickly, with awards often granted within about three months. Cases requiring extensive evidence gathering, such as those involving clinically diagnosed permanent mental injury, may take approximately one to 18 months. Our experienced CICA solicitors will provide personalized advice for your specific situation.

Compensation for historic sexual abuse can vary extensively. Claims are very much individually based as survivors often endured repeated abuse for extended periods. Awards vary based on the severity and duration of the abuse, with higher amounts awarded for serious internal or clinically diagnosed mental injuries. O’Neill Solicitors can provide further details on compensation amounts during your consultation.

Consulting with our CICA Solicitors is entirely free. During your initial conversation, we will assess your eligibility and discuss your options. If you choose to proceed with a claim, we can offer a range of options to include After The Event insurance and Legal Aid.

Specific CICA Rules for Historical Claims

Reporting historic abuse to the police is a critical step. If the abuse was not reported when you were a child, you will need to demonstrate a valid reason for not applying for child abuse compensation within the usual two-year timeframe. The rules surrounding eligibility can be complex, so it’s advisable to consult with a CICA solicitor for guidance.

The Impact of the ‘Same Roof Rule’

A recent landmark decision by the Court of Appeal has invalidated the ‘CICA’s same roof rule,’ which previously denied compensation to victims of abuse that occurred before 1979 and within the same household as the abuser. We are currently representing many victims who were previously denied compensation under this rule.

Obtaining the Police Crime Number

To proceed with a compensation claim, the CICA requires a Police Crime Number (PCN). If you no longer have this number, you can often obtain it by calling 101 if you still reside in the area, or by contacting the main police station in the relevant county. O’Neill Solicitors can assist you in this process.

Seeking Compensation for Mental Injury

Survivors of sexual abuse may experience significant mental health challenges. If you have suffered mental health issues due to the abuse, you may be eligible for additional compensation. The compensation scheme considers mental injury when supported by medical evidence. Common mental health conditions resulting from abuse include anxiety, depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

If you are concerned about your mental health, we encourage you to consult with your GP, who can assess your condition and provide referrals to specialist services. O’Neill Solicitors can help you navigate the process of obtaining compensation for mental injury, and we will work closely with your healthcare providers to gather necessary evidence.

Don’t Hesitate to Seek Help

If you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, emotionally unstable personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, or schizophrenia and have experienced historic abuse, you may be eligible for compensation. It’s essential to provide details of your current mental health professional, and in some cases, medical records and reports from clinical psychologists or psychiatrists may be required.

You can also find support via the Victim Support NI website.

O’Neill Solicitors is here to support you through every step of the compensation process. If you have any of the mentioned conditions and need assistance with your claim, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.