When a Baby Has Suffered Shaken Baby Syndrome or Abusive Head Trauma

Shaken Baby Syndrome & Abusive Head Trauma Compensation Claims

If your child has suffered injuries due to Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS), now more commonly referred to as Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), you may be entitled to compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).

Speak to a specialist

We understand how overwhelming this situation can be. Families contacting us are often coping with hospital admissions, neurological uncertainty, police investigations and emotional trauma.

Our specialist team provides calm, clear and experienced guidance during an exceptionally difficult time.

What Is Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) / Abusive Head Trauma (AHT)?

Shaken Baby Syndrome, increasingly referred to by medical professionals as Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), is a serious form of violent assault that can cause catastrophic brain injury in infants and young children.

Injuries may include:

  • Brain injury
  • Subdural haemorrhage
  • Retinal haemorrhage
  • Skull fractures
  • Seizures
  • Developmental delay
  • Long-term neurological impairment
  • Psychological trauma

Where these injuries result from a criminal act, compensation may be available through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme.

Claiming Compensation Through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme has existed since 1964 to compensate victims of violent crime in England, Scotland and Wales.

A successful Shaken Baby Syndrome or Abusive Head Trauma compensation claim may include:

  • Awards for physical brain injury
  • Compensation for psychological injury
  • Long-term care costs
  • Loss of future earnings
  • Special expenses (therapy, rehabilitation, medical treatment)

However, the CICA scheme is technical and strictly applied. Many claims are refused each year due to incomplete evidence, missed deadlines or misunderstanding of eligibility rules.

Specialist legal preparation significantly improves the prospects of success.

In the most serious cases, awards can reach up to

£500,000

Our Experience in Serious Child Injury & CICA Claims

GLP Solicitors is nationally recognised for its expertise in Criminal Injuries Compensation claims, including complex cases involving Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma.

Our specialist team has extensive experience handling serious child brain injury claims under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme. We regularly deal with complex medical evidence, neurological injury assessments and long-term care considerations.

Within our team are lawyers who:

  • Are Fellows of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL)
  • Lecture on serious personal injury and Criminal Injuries Compensation
  • Contribute to legal publications on compensation law
SRA Regulated Lexcel Accredited APIL Corporate National Coverage
Parent and child walking together in golden sunlight

Why Specialist Legal Expertise Matters in Shaken Baby Syndrome Claims

These Are Not Routine Compensation Claims

Applications involving Shaken Baby Syndrome or Abusive Head Trauma require:

  • Detailed analysis of medical records
  • Understanding of paediatric brain injury prognosis
  • Correct categorisation under the CICA tariff
  • Evidence of care needs and long-term impact
  • Knowledge of review and appeal procedures

The CICA applies strict eligibility criteria, reporting requirements and time limits. Errors at the outset can materially affect the level of compensation awarded, or lead to refusal.

Our team ensures:

  • Evidence is properly gathered and presented
  • The correct injury classification is applied
  • Future care and financial losses are fully considered
  • Reviews and appeals are pursued where appropriate
  • You receive clear advice at every stage

Compassionate and Clear Legal Support for Families

Families contacting us are often dealing with:

  • Ongoing hospital treatment
  • Uncertainty about long-term neurological outcomes
  • Criminal investigations
  • Social services involvement
  • Emotional and psychological trauma

We prioritise:

  • Plain English advice
  • Honest assessment of prospects
  • Transparent explanation of potential compensation
  • Realistic timescales
  • Regular case updates

You will always understand where your claim stands and what happens next.

What Happens Next?

Free Initial Consultation

We listen carefully to your circumstances and assess eligibility under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme.

Evidence Review & CICA Application

We gather medical evidence, confirm reporting requirements and prepare a fully supported Shaken Baby Syndrome compensation claim.

Ongoing Representation & Appeals

We manage the claim, challenge any under-assessment or refusal, and ensure long-term needs are properly considered.

Our goal is to reduce your stress, not add to it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shaken Baby Syndrome Compensation

No. A conviction is not required, provided there is sufficient evidence that a crime of violence occurred.

There is usually a two-year time limit, although special rules apply for children and exceptional circumstances.

Compensation depends on the severity of brain injury, long-term impact and financial losses. We provide clear advice on likely award ranges.

We will advise if there are additional or alternative legal routes available.

Yes, in appropriate cases.

Speak to a Specialist Shaken Baby Syndrome Compensation Solicitor

If your child has suffered Shaken Baby Syndrome or Abusive Head Trauma and you would like to understand your options, please contact us in confidence.

Freephone: 0800 138 6061