Survivors of childhood sexual abuse may now have a renewed opportunity to seek compensation following a major change to the law. From 29 June 2026, the limitation period for civil claims arising from child sexual abuse has been abolished in England and Wales, meaning survivors can no longer be prevented from bringing a claim solely because many years have passed since the abuse occurred.
Many survivors do not feel able to disclose abuse until years or decades later. The change in the law recognises this reality and shifts the focus away from delay in bringing a claim. If you were previously told that your claim was "out of time", it may now be worth seeking fresh legal advice. The change applies retrospectively, although claims that have already been settled or finally decided by a court will not be able to be brought again.
Many successful claims are brought against organisations rather than individual perpetrators. Depending on the circumstances, schools, care homes, local authorities, religious organisations and sports clubs may be legally responsible for abuse committed by those acting on their behalf or for failures that allowed the abuse to occur. Compensation can cover psychological injury, lost earnings, treatment costs and the wider impact the abuse has had on a survivor's life.
Although the time limit for bringing a civil claim has been removed, evidence can become more difficult to obtain over time. Early legal advice can help identify the correct claim route, secure important records and assess the prospects of success.
Compensation may also be available through a civil claim and/or an application to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
The CICA is a government compensation scheme for victims of violent crime, including sexual abuse. To qualify, the abuse will usually need to have been reported to the police, and the applicant must cooperate with any investigation. A criminal conviction is not required. CICA claims can be particularly important where the perpetrator cannot be identified, has not been prosecuted, or has no means of paying compensation.
To qualify for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), the abuse must usually have been reported to the police, and the applicant must cooperate with any criminal investigation. A criminal conviction is not required. CICA claims may be available where the abuser cannot be identified, has not been prosecuted, or has no means of paying compensation. Eligibility will depend on the individual circumstances of the case, including the evidence available and compliance with the CICA scheme requirements.
Our specialist abuse claims team can provide confidential advice on both civil claims and CICA applications. If you were abused as a child and were previously told it was too late to pursue a claim, the recent change in the law may mean that compensation is now available. To speak to a member of our team, contact us today on 01429 225 200.
Call: 01429 225200