Historic abuse compensation claims

Yes, survivors of historical sexual, physical or emotional abuse may be entitled to compensation through a civil claim against the abuser or an organisation or institution that failed to protect them. 

In some circumstances compensation may also be available through government-backed schemes such as the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) or Redress Scotland.  

However, eligibility and the most appropriate route depend on the facts of the abuse, where it occurred, and the evidence available. Speaking with a specialist solicitor can help you understand the most appropriate route and the support available to you.

Historical abuse can be reported to the police by calling 101, attending a police station, or using the relevant online reporting form. Specialist officers are trained to deal with non-recent abuse cases.  

Many survivors also seek advice from specialist solicitors who can explain reporting options and any potential compensation claims. Reporting is a personal decision and can be made whenever a survivor feels ready.

Reporting to the police (optional) - Reporting abuse is a personal decision, and there is no right or wrong time. Some survivors find that reporting helps provide closure or validation. A police report can strengthen a civil case, but it is not required in order to pursue compensation.

If you choose to report, you can:

• Call Police Scotland on 101
• Visit a police station
• Complete the online form on the Police Scotland website

You will usually be connected with a specialist team experienced in handling non‑recent abuse.

Yes, abuse can be reported even if it happened many years or decades ago.  

Police and specialist abuse solicitors investigate non-recent abuse allegations and a delay in reporting does not automatically prevent an investigation or compensation claim.  

In Scotland, the legal time limits for many historical abuse civil claims have been removed, allowing survivors to pursue claims when they feel able to do so.

In Scotland, the time limits for civil childhood abuse claims were removed in 2017. This means survivors can now come forward no matter how long ago the abuse took place.

However, schemes such as CICA and Redress Scotland have their own time limits, so it is best to seek advice when you feel ready.

Yes. If you experienced abuse at any point in the past, you may be able to make a civil claim against the person who harmed you, or an organisation that failed to protect you.

If there is no individual or organisation to pursue, you may still be eligible for financial support through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) or the Redress Scotland scheme.

You do not need to decide anything today. Speaking to us is confidential, and you remain fully in control.

In the UK historical abuse is proven in civil claims on the balance of probabilities, meaning the survivor must show it is more likely than not that the abuse occurred. 

If the person responsible does not admit the abuse, we work to build evidence through:

• Your account - Shared at your own pace and in a safe, supported environment.
• Evidence gathering - Including medical records, social work files, police reports, school records, or previous inquiry findings.
• Witness testimony - Where appropriate, we speak with individuals who may have information about your circumstances.
• Criminal convictions - If a perpetrator has been previously convicted, this can support your civil case. However, a conviction is not required.

Each case is unique. Even when historical records are limited, we may still be able to proceed by building a wider picture of what happened and its impact on your life.

We tailor our approach to each survivor, but the general process looks like this:

Initial contact - You can contact us by phone or through our online form. You will only be asked to share what you feel comfortable with.

Speaking with a specialist lawyer - A member of our Non‑Accidental Team will explain your options, answer your questions, and outline how our no‑win‑no‑fee funding works.

Becoming our client - If you decide to proceed, we confirm the paperwork and begin work straight away.

Gathering evidence - We collect all relevant documentation and consult experts or agencies as needed. Communication is always clear, respectful, and free of jargon.

Negotiation - We negotiate on your behalf with the defenders (the individual or organisation responsible). Most cases settle out of court.

Court - Only a small proportion of cases go to court. If yours does, we support you at every step and ensure you remain in control.

We can investigate claims against any person or organisation that committed abuse or failed in their duty to protect. This includes:

• local authorities
• public bodies
• religious organisations
• charities
• football clubs
• private schools
• care homes and children’s homes
• businesses and other institutions

Where organisations are responsible, we may use vicarious liability, a legal principle that holds an employer accountable for abuse carried out by someone in a position of trust.

If there is no organisation to pursue, we may investigate the abuser’s personal assets. If that is not possible, we can help explore options through CICA or Redress Scotland.