Victims who have suffered physical injury or who have suffered psychological adverse effects as a direct result of the violent crime may apply for assistance from VOCAT. They may be eligible for an Award consisting of their out-of-pocket medical or pharmaceutical expenses, loss of earnings, damage to clothing, counselling services and (in exceptional circumstances) expenses that would assist the victim’s recovery. In addition, a “special financial assistance” payment may also be made, dependant upon the injury sustained and the significant adverse effect suffered as a result of the crime and the applicant’s personal circumstances. These “special” payments are made according to various “classes” of acts of violence, up to certain limits. Overall limits also apply to claims.
Applicants may be injured victims of violent crime, or injured witnesses. They may also be parents of injured children who have suffered adverse effects of becoming aware of their children’s injury. They may also be close family members of a victim who have died as a direct result of a crime of violence.