
Calls have been made for a compensation scheme for victims of crime to be overhauled amid claims it is adding to distress for victims through its shortcomings.
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) was criticised for rising waiting times for victims to get a decision over whether they would get compensation, with nearly a fifth of claimants waiting more than two years for an answer according to its latest annual report. Some have to wait more than five years for a verdict.