Workplace assault is a very serious issue. It can cause physical harm, mental trauma, and financial problems. Many workers feel lost after such incidents. Others do not know their rights. In the UK, employees have legal protection.
You may claim compensation if assaulted at work. This blog explains your rights. It shows what steps to take. It also covers how to make a claim. The aim is to provide clear guidance.
What Is Workplace Assault
Workplace assault is any harmful act at work. It can be physical or verbal. Physical assault includes hitting, pushing, or unwanted contact. Verbal assault includes threats or abuse causing fear. Both are serious and both count as assault.
The key is that the harm happens during your work. The attacker may be a colleague. They may be a customer. They may be a member of the public. The law protects you from these incidents. Employers must take steps to prevent them.
Employer’s Duty of Care
Employers have a legal duty to protect staff. This duty covers all employees. It includes full-time, part-time, and temporary staff. Employers must assess risks. They must create policies against violence. They must act if risks are known.
For example, employers should provide training for high-risk roles. They should also deal with violent customers. If they fail, they may be liable. Workers harmed by assault can then claim compensation. Safety is a legal right. Employers cannot ignore it.
Reporting the Incident
After an assault, report it immediately. Tell your manager or supervisor. Record it in the accident book. If no book exists, write a report yourself. Always keep a copy for your records.
If the assault is serious, report it to police. A police report is strong evidence. Visit a doctor for medical notes. Even small injuries should be checked. Medical records are vital proof. Reporting is an important step. Without it, claims may be harder.
Collecting Evidence
Evidence makes your case stronger. Collect proof as soon as possible. Take photos of your injuries. Ask witnesses to provide written statements. Save any emails or texts about the incident.
If CCTV exists, request footage quickly. Employers may also keep reports of the event. Ask for copies. Keep receipts for medical costs or travel expenses. These details show the impact of the assault. Strong evidence supports your right to compensation.
Your Legal Rights
UK law protects workers from harm. You have the right to a safe workplace. If assaulted, you may claim against your employer. This is because they have a duty of care. Their insurers usually handle payments.
You may also claim against the attacker. This depends on who they are and if they can pay. Another option is applying to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority. This government scheme supports victims of crime. Each option has different rules and outcomes.
Civil Claims Against Employers
Civil claims are the most common route. A solicitor helps you make the claim. They gather your evidence. They contact your employer’s insurer. They argue your employer failed in their duty.
If liability is accepted, you may receive an offer. If not, the case may go to court. Most claims settle before trial. Civil claims can cover injury, trauma, and financial losses. They often provide higher compensation than government schemes.
Criminal Injuries Compensation
If your employer is not liable, you may still claim. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority offers awards. It is a government scheme for victims of violent crime.
You must report to the police and apply within two years. Payments are based on fixed amounts. They depend on the type of injury. Awards may be smaller than civil claims. But this option ensures support is available. It helps when no other claim is possible.
What Compensation Covers
Compensation covers both injury and costs. General damages cover pain, suffering, and trauma. Special damages cover financial losses. These include lost wages, medical bills, and travel expenses.
If you cannot return to work, future earnings may be included. Care costs and home changes can also be covered. Mental harm is also considered. Compensation is designed to cover everything linked to the assault. Each claim is unique.
Time Limits
Claims have time limits. Civil claims usually have three limits. The time starts from the date of the assault. If illness appears later, time may start then.
CICA claims usually have two limits. Waiting too long makes claims harder. Evidence is fresher when recent. Always act quickly. Do not delay reporting or seeking advice. Time limits are strict.
Role of a Solicitor
A solicitor is very helpful. They understand workplace claims. They know what evidence is needed. They calculate fair amounts. They deal with insurers and handle paperwork.
Many solicitors use no-win, no-fee agreements. This means no payment unless you win. It makes claiming less risky. It helps workers who cannot afford upfront costs. With a solicitor, the process is easier and clearer.
Why You Should Claim
Some workers hesitate to claim. They fear upsetting employers. Others feel guilty about money. But compensation is your legal right. It is not greed. It is fairness.
Compensation helps recovery. It covers your losses. It pressures employers to improve safety. By claiming, you protect yourself and others. You also send a message that assault is unacceptable. Claims make workplaces safer for all.
Conclusion
Workplace assault can cause deep harm. It affects health, income, and well-being. But you are not without rights. UK law protects you. You may claim compensation.
You can claim through your employer. You can claim against the attacker. You can also apply to CICA. Each path offers support. Report incidents, gather evidence, and act quickly.
Speak to a solicitor for advice. Compensation helps you rebuild. It also makes workplaces safer. Do not stay silent. Claim what you deserve.
