Campaigners Urge Review of £500,000 Cap on Crime Victims’ Compensation

In Brief

Advocates argue that the long-standing compensation cap fails to reflect inflation and victims’ lifetime needs.

Key Facts

• The maximum compensation for crime victims in England, Scotland, and Wales is currently £500,000.
• This cap was set by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) in April 1996.
• Campaigners state that if the cap were adjusted for inflation, it would now exceed £1 million.
• Families of victims have described the current amount as 'an insult'.
• The cap has remained unchanged for 30 years.

What Happened

Campaigners and victims’ families have called for the £500,000 cap on compensation for crime victims in Great Britain to be raised, citing its 30-year freeze and lack of adjustment for inflation.

Why It Matters

The compensation limit affects the financial support available to victims with severe, life-changing injuries. Advocates say the outdated cap may hinder victims’ ability to plan for long-term care and recovery.

What's Next

There have been calls for the government to review and potentially increase the compensation cap. No official response or timeline for review has been reported.