Violence Victims 'Unaware' Of Compensation Scheme

Two thirds of crime victims are unaware they can claim compensation, according to MPs.

A report by the Commons Public Accounts Committee revealed that only 5% of victims of crime eligible for sums of up to £500,000 ever apply to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, and those who do are further hindered by complicated application forms.

The committee also found many victims of violent crime spent money on expensive lawyers, as they were unaware free legal help was on offer.

Edward Leigh MP, Chairman of the committee, said: "The Ministry of Justice's declared objective is to place victims at the heart of the criminal justice system.

"If the scheme for compensating victims of violent crime is anything to go by, that objective is a long way from fulfilment."

The report, 'Compensating Victims of Violent Crime', also said ministers failed to set the body rigorous targets as costs and bureaucracy increased and standards slipped.

Even though the number of applications fell by 23%, the time taken to resolve the average complaint has risen from one year to 17 months.

Also, the cost of administering the scheme rose by £6 million between 2000 and 2006, while staff productivity decreased.

A Ministry of Justice spokeswoman responded: "The Government continues to improve the quality of the practical and emotional support victims receive, providing access to compensation, ensuring they have timely access to information, and ensuring their voice is heard in the system.

"Since 2006 CICA have improved the access and quality of services for victims of violent crime and a more efficient case handling process is resulting in faster decisions."

(JM)