A recent report by the national Domestic Homicide Project has for the first time seen suspected victim suicide overtake intimate partner homicide as the largest cause of domestic abuse related deaths. Suicide is a major public health problem and a large contributor to UK deaths overall.
Further, it has been shown that women who suffer domestic abuse are three times more likely to attempt suicide and almost half of domestic abuse survivors have experienced depression or suicidal thoughts, as a direct result of the harm they have suffered. There are also a number that are left unaccounted for and unrecognised.
Domestic abuse can have a long term impact on someone’s mental health, as they can feel isolated, lonely and powerless. Disabling mental injury is recognised as being a possible result of domestic abuse, and unfortunately this type of injury can often lead to suicidal thoughts.
But there is help out there for victims and survivors of domestic abuse. There are a number of local and national services, across the NHS and specialist organisations, dedicated to supporting anyone that needs help to talk about what they are experiencing or to try and escape their situation.
In addition, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) in the UK, can offer compensation for people who have been subject to domestic violence, including if they are having suicidal thoughts as a result of disabling mental illness. This compensation is designed to help victims and survivors to get back on their feet, which could mean accessing additional support services to try to reduce the incidence of suicide.
What is the CICA?
The CICA is a government funded scheme, compensating victims of violent crime and abuse. The purpose of the scheme is to compensate victims who may not be able to claim against those responsible for causing their injuries, and applications for compensation are completely confidential.
Compensation for domestic abuse survivors
Under the current ‘Tariff of Injuries’, the eligible scope of domestic abuse covers:
- Physical abuse – one off or repetitive incidents
- Mental abuse and mental injuries
- Sexual abuse
Domestic abuse is not limited to the above forms, as in law it also include financial, emotional or coercive abuse. At the moment the CICA do not compensate for these types of abuse, however there are discussions to have them added to the Tariff of Injuries.
How can Ramsdens help with CICA claims?
At Ramsdens, we offer a No Win, No Fee service, for CICA claims. By using a solicitor to make an application, statistics show that you are more likely to be successful in receiving compensation. Our support includes:
· Free initial consultation to offer guidance on the process and your options
· Support and guidance throughout the entire CICA process
· Signposting to other sources of support
· Provide specialist advice on your circumstances
Important note:
This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
With offices in Leeds, Huddersfield and across Yorkshire, we can provide our services across the entire county. To find out if you can make a compensation claim, call us for free on 01484 821 500, email us at PICN@ramsdens.co.uk or submit your claim online and a member of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.
The above article is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any part of the information given.