How to Claim Compensation as a Victim of Stalking

Victims of stalking and harassment often suffer deep psychological, emotional, and even financial damage. At our firm, we understand the gravity of these offences and aim to ensure that victims are fully informed of their rights to claim compensation for stalking victims. In this guide, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of how to pursue a compensation claim, what evidence is required, and how much victims may be entitled to receive.

Understanding Your Rights as a Victim of Stalking and Harassment

Victims of stalking and harassment have clear legal protections under UK law, primarily under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 and subsequent legislation. These protections allow for criminal prosecution of offenders and civil remedies including compensation.

Stalking and harassment may include repeated unwanted contact, threats, surveillance, or any behaviour that causes fear, distress, or alarm. It is important to recognise the full extent of harm mental anguish, disruption to daily life, and economic loss.

Who Can Claim Compensation?

You may be eligible to claim compensation for stalking victims if:

• You reported the stalking/harassment to the police.

• The incident occurred within the last two years (exceptions may apply).

• You sustained a physical or psychological injury as a result.

• The incident happened in England, Scotland, or Wales.

Claims can be made through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), a government-funded body that compensates victims of violent crime, including stalking.

CICA Claims: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Report the Incident to the Police

The CICA requires a crime reference number. Without police involvement, your claim cannot proceed. Ensure that the incident is officially logged.

2. Gather Medical and Psychological Evidence

CICA requires evidence of injury. This may include:

• GP or hospital records

• Psychological assessment

• Therapy notes

• Prescription history

3. File a CICA Application

You can submit a claim online. Information required includes:

• Crime reference number

• Evidence of harm

• Personal ID and financial details

Claims must generally be made within two years of the incident. However, exceptions exist for victims suffering long-term trauma or in cases involving children.

4. Await Assessment and Decision

CICA will evaluate:

• Severity of injury (using a tariff-based system)

• Any financial loss (e.g., loss of earnings, cost of treatment)

• The conduct of the applicant (claims may be reduced if the victim contributed to the situation)

What Compensation Can You Receive?

Compensation amounts vary, but typical payments include:

In more severe or prolonged cases, where the stalking caused life-altering trauma, awards can be significantly higher.

Civil Claims vs. Criminal Compensation

In addition to CICA, victims may also pursue a civil claim directly against the perpetrator. Civil claims can sometimes result in higher compensation, especially when the stalker is identifiable and has assets.

Benefits of a civil claim:

• No strict time limit (though earlier is better)

• Broader damages (including defamation or loss of reputation)

• Legal costs may be recoverable

However, civil claims require legal action, which can be more complex and costly.

FAQs on Compensation for Stalking Victims

Can I claim if no one was prosecuted?

Yes. CICA does not require a conviction, only that the crime was reported and credible evidence exists.

Is online harassment covered?

In many cases, yes—especially if it causes psychological harm or escalates into offline threats.

What if I was stalked as a child?

Victims abused or stalked as children may claim later in life, particularly if trauma delayed their ability to come forward.

Can I claim anonymously?

While CICA needs your personal details, they do not share them with the offender.

Final Thoughts

We stand with victims of stalking and harassment. If you’ve experienced fear, distress, or harm due to someone’s obsessive or threatening behaviour, you have the right to seek justice and financial redress. Whether through CICA or a civil court, taking the first step to claim compensation for stalking victims begins your journey toward recovery and empowerment.