Abuse Claims Support

Abuse, in all its forms, is a grievous violation of trust, dignity, and basic human rights. It can manifest in countless ways, from the physical scars inflicted by violence to the insidious psychological wounds left by coercion and control. It is not confined to any single group, background, or demographic.

Children, adults and the elderly alike can all fall victim to abuse, yet the suffering endured by each is no less significant than the other.

Abuse Claims

Psychological abuse operates in the shadows, often unseen but deeply corrosive. It strips individuals of their confidence, self-worth, and independence. Those subjected to it are frequently manipulated, gaslit, and left doubting their own perceptions of reality. Perpetrators wield control with devastating precision, isolating their victims and ensuring their silence. The absence of bruises or broken bones does not lessen the cruelty or the damage inflicted. Physical abuse is a brutal assertion of power, leaving visible injuries as well as hidden trauma. It can range from slaps and punches to far more violent acts, each one designed to dominate, humiliate, and instil fear. For many victims, the physical pain is secondary to the emotional torment. The memory of raised fists or uncontrolled rage lingers long after wounds have healed. The terror of the next attack often imprisons victims in a cycle of suffering, where seeking help may feel like an insurmountable task.

Sexual abuse is among the most abhorrent violations a person can endure. It is an attack not only on the body but on the very core of an individual’s being. Survivors of such abuse carry with them a burden no one should have to bear, often compounded by feelings of shame, guilt, and fear. Too many suffer in silence, believing their voices will not be heard or their pain will not be believed.

Emotional abuse, though frequently dismissed or downplayed, is no less damaging than any other form of cruelty. It is an unrelenting assault on the mind and spirit, designed to belittle, demean, and destroy confidence. It often exists alongside other types of abuse, compounding the victim’s suffering and making escape even more difficult. The scars left by words, neglect, and calculated cruelty are just as deep as those caused by physical harm. They fester in the psyche, leading to long-term trauma, anxiety and depression.

Domestic abuse is a horror that takes place behind closed doors, in homes where safety and security should be guaranteed. It is not limited to married couples, nor is it solely a women’s issue. Men, too, are victims, as are children and elderly relatives trapped in situations of relentless control, violence, and degradation. The common misconception that abuse in the home is a ‘private matter’ has enabled abusers to act with impunity for too long. The law does not recognise the sanctity of a household as a shield for cruelty, nor should society.

The tragic reality is that abuse does not discriminate. Children, with their vulnerability and dependence, are among the most defenceless. The betrayal of trust by those meant to protect them is an unforgivable crime. But to assume that only the young are victims is a dangerous misconception. The elderly, often frail and reliant on others for care, are also frequent targets. Whether through neglect, financial exploitation, or direct harm, they are too often voiceless victims, suffering in silence when they should be treated with dignity and respect. The pain of a child abused in secrecy is no more nor less harrowing than the terror felt by an elderly person stripped of their autonomy. The young woman afraid to sleep in her own home is just as deserving of justice as the middle-aged man subjected to years of coercive control. Abuse is an attack on the very essence of a person’s humanity. It is a violation that cannot, must not, be ignored.

The notion that abuse is a private affair or something to be endured in silence must be shattered. Those who suffer must know that they are not alone, that there is help available. The legal system exists not only to punish wrongdoers but to offer protection and reparation to those who have suffered. There is support and there is a path forward.

Seeking legal help is about holding those responsible to account and ensuring that no one else falls victim to the same cruelty. A claim for compensation is not merely financial—it is an assertion that the suffering endured was real, that it mattered, and that it should never have happened.

If you or someone you know has suffered any form of abuse, now is the time to act. Silence only serves those who seek to harm. Speaking out is not easy, but it is necessary.

We understand that taking the first step to come forward can feel overwhelming and intimidating and it’s completely natural to have doubts about speaking with the police or a solicitor. We want to assure you that our role is to support and guide you through every aspect of this process with compassion and respect. Please know that reaching out for help is a courageous decision and we are here to provide you with clear, understanding advice tailored to your situation. When you’re ready to talk, we encourage you to get in touch so we can discuss your options and work together at a pace that feels right for you.

Our solicitors have devoted their careers to helping survivors of abuse, and we are here to help you too.

Abuse Claims FAQs

If you have suffered abuse and want to make a claim, the first step is to speak with a specialist solicitor who has experience handling abuse claims. They will provide confidential advice and guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand your rights and options. You can contact a solicitor directly, or if you feel uncertain, you may wish to speak to a trusted support organisation first. Charities such as the NSPCC, Victim Support, or Rape Crisis can offer emotional support and help you take the next steps.

 

Once you feel ready, your solicitor will listen to your experience with sensitivity, assess your case, and explain the legal process. They can help you claim compensation against the responsible party, whether it is an individual, an institution, or through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) if no direct claim is possible.

 

If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, contact the police by dialling 999. Otherwise, seeking legal advice as soon as possible can help you understand the time limits and evidence needed for your claim.

Yes, you may still be able to pursue a claim, even if the abuse happened a long time ago. While there are time limits for bringing a claim - typically three years from the date of the abuse or from when you realised its impact - exceptions can be made in cases of historical abuse. Courts recognise that survivors often take years, or even decades, to come forward due to trauma, fear, or repression.

 

If the abuse happened when you were a child, the time limit usually begins when you turn 18. However, if you have only recently come to terms with the impact of the abuse or have new evidence, you may still be able to make a claim. A solicitor with experience in abuse cases can assess your situation and advise on whether an exception to the time limits may apply. You may also be able to seek compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), which has different rules for historical abuse cases. Even if the abuser is no longer alive or cannot be prosecuted, a claim may still be possible against institutions or organisations responsible for protecting you at the time.

 

Every case is different, so speaking to a specialist solicitor as soon as possible will help you understand your options.

No, you do not need to go to the police first. You can choose to speak directly with a solicitor who specialises in abuse claims. They will provide confidential advice and help you understand your legal options without any obligation to report the abuse to the police.

 

However, if you do decide to make a criminal complaint, reporting the abuse can strengthen your case, especially if you are seeking compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). A police report can serve as evidence to support your claim. That said, a civil claim for compensation can still be pursued even if no criminal charges are brought against the abuser. If you feel unsure, you may want to seek guidance from a support organisation such as Victim Support, Rape Crisis, or the NSPCC, where trained professionals can offer emotional support and help you decide on the best course of action.

 

The most important thing is that you do what feels right for you, in your own time. A solicitor will handle your case with sensitivity and can guide you through the process, whether or not you choose to involve the police.

Yes, you may still be able to make a claim even if you don’t have physical evidence. Many abuse cases rely on personal testimony and the law recognises that survivors may not always have documented proof of what happened to them. A specialist solicitor will listen to your experience with care and help gather supporting evidence. This could include your own statement about the abuse and how it has affected you, along with testimonies from people who may have noticed changes in your behaviour at the time, such as friends, family members, or professionals.

 

Medical or psychological records can also play a role in showing the long-term impact of the abuse, while any past disclosures to the police, even if no charges were brought, can support your case. If the abuse occurred in an institution such as a school, care home, or workplace, records from that organisation may help establish responsibility.

Yes, your claim can be handled with a high level of confidentiality, and in most cases, you will not have to come face to face with your abuser. Solicitors who specialise in abuse claims understand the sensitivity of these cases and will take steps to protect your identity as much as possible.

 

If you are making a civil claim for compensation, your solicitor will act on your behalf, meaning there is usually no need for direct contact with the abuser. Many cases settle outside of court, and even if a court hearing is required, special measures - such as giving evidence remotely or behind a screen - can often be arranged to ensure your safety and privacy. If you are applying for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), there is no need for your abuser to be involved at all. This is a government scheme designed to compensate victims of crime and decisions are made based on police reports and other evidence.

 

If your case involves criminal proceedings, the police and courts have measures in place to protect survivors, including anonymity orders and special arrangements to prevent direct confrontation.

 

Your safety and well-being are the priority. A specialist solicitor will discuss your concerns and take every step to ensure you feel comfortable and protected throughout the process.

Yes, you can. The outcome of a criminal case does not necessarily prevent you from pursuing a civil claim or applying for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). In a criminal trial, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt, which is a high standard of proof. If the jury or judge is not completely sure, they must find the defendant not guilty. However, this does not mean the abuse did not happen - only that there was not enough evidence for a conviction under criminal law.

 

In a civil claim, the standard of proof is lower. The case is decided on the balance of probabilities, meaning the court only needs to be satisfied that it is more likely than not that the abuse occurred. Many survivors successfully claim compensation even when a criminal trial does not lead to a conviction.

 

You may also be eligible to apply for compensation through CICA, a government scheme that compensates victims of violent crime. A criminal conviction is not required for a successful CICA claim, though you will usually need to show that you reported the abuse to the police.

If your abuser has passed away, you may still be able to pursue a claim for compensation. While a criminal case would no longer be possible, there are other legal options available.

 

One option is to bring a civil claim against the abuser’s estate. If they left behind assets such as property, savings, or pensions, a claim may be made against their estate, provided it is still open and has funds available. If the abuse occurred within an institution - such as a school, care home, religious organisation, or workplace - you may be able to bring a claim against the organisation that failed to protect you.

 

Many institutions remain legally responsible for the actions of their former employees or representatives, even after their death. You may also be eligible to apply for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), a government scheme that provides financial support to victims of violent crimes, including abuse.

 

A claim through CICA can still proceed regardless of whether the abuser is alive. Time limits can vary depending on the circumstances, but exceptions are often made in cases of historical abuse. A solicitor specialising in abuse claims can assess your case and advise on the best way forward.

Immediate Help and Support

  • If your child is in immediate danger, call 999 for emergency assistance.
  • Report the abuse to the police as soon as possible. They have specialist officers trained to handle sensitive cases involving children.
  • Contact children’s services in your local authority, as they can provide protection and support for your child.
  • Reach out to child protection charities such as:
    • NSPCC (0808 800 5000) – Offers confidential advice and guidance.
    • Childline (0800 1111) – A helpline for children who need support.
    • Victim Support (0808 168 9111) – Provides assistance to victims of crime, including families.

Taking Legal Action

  • Criminal Prosecution: If the police investigate and find enough evidence, the perpetrator may be prosecuted. The case will be handled by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), and if convicted, the abuser could face criminal penalties.
  • Civil Compensation Claim: Regardless of whether there is a criminal conviction, you can pursue a civil claim for compensation against the perpetrator or an organisation that failed to protect your child, such as a school, care home, or religious institution.
  • Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) Claim: If your child has suffered abuse, they may be eligible for compensation through CICA, even if the abuser is not prosecuted.

What your child has endured is a deplorable. Support is available to help you and your child through it. A specialist solicitor will handle the legal process with sensitivity and care, ensuring your child’s well-being remains the priority.

 

Measures can be put in place to shield them from further distress, such as giving evidence remotely or remaining anonymous. Taking action can be overwhelming at an already difficult time but please know you are not alone in this.

The length of time an abuse claim takes can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the type of claim being made, and whether the abuser or responsible party contests liability.

 

For Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) claims, where compensation is sought from a government scheme rather than an individual or institution, cases typically take 12 to 18 months to resolve, though complex cases may take longer. For civil claims against an individual, an organisation (such as a school, care home, or employer), or an institution, the process can take several months to a few years. If liability is accepted early on, a settlement may be reached more quickly. However, if the defendant disputes the claim or court proceedings are necessary, it can take longer. If criminal proceedings are ongoing alongside your claim, the civil case may need to wait until the criminal trial concludes, which can add to the timeframe.

 

While these cases can take time, an experienced solicitor will work to move your claim forward as efficiently as possible while ensuring that you receive the support you need. They will also keep you updated throughout the process so you know what to expect at each stage.

Time limits for making an abuse claim can vary depending on the circumstances, but exceptions are often made, especially in cases of historical abuse. In most civil claims, there is typically a three-year time limit from the date of the abuse or from when you became aware of its impact. However, the courts understand that many survivors take years or even decades to come forward, so they have the discretion to allow claims outside this timeframe.

 

For cases involving childhood abuse, the time limit usually begins when the survivor turns 18, meaning they would have until the age of 21 to make a claim. However, courts regularly allow claims to proceed beyond this, especially where the survivor has only recently felt able to speak out.

 

If you are claiming through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), the usual time limit is two years from when the abuse was reported to the police, but exceptions may apply in cases of severe trauma or where there is strong evidence.

Yes, you may be able to bring a claim against an organisation if it failed in its duty to protect you from abuse. Institutions such as schools, care homes, religious organisations, sports clubs, youth groups, and employers have a legal responsibility to safeguard those in their care. If they neglected this duty - whether by failing to act on warnings, ignoring complaints, or allowing an unsafe environment to exist - you may have grounds for a claim.

 

Even if the abuser acted alone, the organisation may still be held legally responsible if they were in a position of authority, such as a teacher, priest, care worker, coach, or employer. Many institutions have been found liable for abuse carried out by individuals under their supervision, even years later.

 

You may also be able to claim if an organisation failed to properly investigate reports of abuse or knowingly covered it up. If the institution no longer exists, compensation may still be possible through its successor organisation or insurers.

Deciding to come forward about abuse is incredibly brave, and you do not have to go through it alone. This process can bring up many emotions - pain, fear, uncertainty - but there is support available to help you through. Your solicitor will not just be there to handle the legal side of things; they will listen, understand, and guide you with care and sensitivity.

 

They will ensure that you feel safe and supported, never pressured, and always in control of your choices. If you are struggling emotionally, they can also connect you with organisations that specialise in helping survivors of abuse.

 

Charities offer free and confidential emotional support, whether you need someone to talk to or help coping with trauma. Therapy and counselling -whether through the NHS, private providers, or specialist trauma centres - can also be an important part of your healing. If you are feeling overwhelmed there are professionals who will listen and understand.

 

If the abuse has left you struggling financially, you may also be entitled to support, including interim compensation payments while your claim is ongoing. A solicitor can advise you on this, helping to ease some of the burden while you focus on your well-being.