Supporting rape survivors throughout the criminal injuries compensation scheme : An exploration of English and Welsh independent sexual violence advisor's experiences

English and Welsh responses to rape have long been critically examined, leading to attempted improvements in the Criminal Justice System (Home Office, 2013). Despite this, little attention has been paid to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme [CICS] and the difficulties applying it to rape. To begin addressing this gap, researchers interviewed three, and qualitatively surveyed twenty-two, Independent Sexual Violence Advisors. The findings suggest that CICS can reinforce rape myths and disadvantage vulnerable survivors, but is also a source of validation and contributes to survivor justice. The study, while exploratory, therefore highlights the need for further discussion about rape survivor compensation.