Making a Child Abuse Compensation Claim

Child abuse legal advice

The legacy of emotional, physical or sexual abuse during childhood can be devastating. Child abuse claims are rising in the UK. The distress and fear it instils in children means that abuse often goes unreported, during childhood and often for a long time afterwards, sometimes remaining a closely guarded secret for life. Survivors of abuse, or parents and guardians working on behalf of their children, can seek compensation for child abuse.

Use our online claims form for free, confidential advice about your claim

Useful child abuse information

Important child abuse contacts

Child abuse compensation claims - FAQs

Profile: Tracey Storey - Specialist Child Abuse Lawyer

We’re experts in childhood abuse claims

Handling claims for child abuse requires expertise so that cases proceed as quickly as possible. At Irwin Mitchell our specialist child abuse solicitors do everything they can to keep our clients’ distress to a minimum and to support them during the course of their case, with practical help and guidance. We’re experienced in managing claims and successfully claiming compensation in abuse cases, particularly in group action cases involving a number of individuals who have suffered in a similar way.

Use our online claims form for free initial advice about your claim

What a compensation claim could achieve

All legal claims have time limits, depending on the type of case being brought. Most people are not ready to talk about the abuse they have suffered until long after it has occurred. The courts can waive time limits and there are special rules for people with learning disabilities or psychological problems.

We’ll advise you during our initial consultation of the time limits which may apply, so please do not assume that your case is not worth pursuing because of timing and we will advise you about all your options. We’ll also look at your funding options, including access to public funding (Legal Aid).

A claim for compensation could achieve the following:

• The abuser could be prosecuted and punished by the criminal courts.
• As the victim of a crime, child abuse survivors may be able to apply to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
• It’s possible to bring a child abuse claim for compensation against someone else who could be deemed responsible for the abuser; for example, if the abuse occurred in a home, or a school, the employer could be prosecuted.

Use our online claims form for free initial advice about your claim

What we'll do for you

More than anything, we aim to keep things clear, simple and as straightforward as possible for our clients, so there’s no need for you to worry at any point about the legal complexities or technicalities of your case. You’ll be kept informed throughout the claim process which put simply, looks like this:

• Your free initial consultation gives us a clear understanding of the child abuse claim.
• If we believe you may have a case to pursue, we assign our legal team with the expertise to investigate your claim.
• The legal team will investigate and obtain evidence to support your case.
• We keep in touch with you throughout, so you’re always informed.
• Finally, with your approval, we arrive at the best settlement possible.

Make contact as soon as possible

In spite of the sensitivity of child abuse, time is usually of the essence. It is important to speak to us as soon as possible – time limitation periods apply (although it is at the court’s discretion to waive these) and investigating your case is often easier if you begin proceedings quickly. Your initial consultation with us is free, and we’ll tell you then whether or not we feel your case is likely to succeed. Legal Aid is available for these cases and we will advise you about that as well.

Can I make a compensation claim? Complete our personal injury claim form to see how we can help you.