The Victim of Violent Crime Compensation Fund provides a financial contribution to victims of violent crimes in the Netherlands, including in Leiden, when the damage cannot be recovered from the perpetrator.
When are you eligible for the Compensation Fund?
- You are a victim of an intentionally committed violent crime in the Netherlands
- You have sustained serious injuries from this crime
- The perpetrator is unable to compensate the damage
- Next of kin of victims who have deceased
Amounts per category
| Category | Amount (2024) |
|---|---|
| Category 1 (minor injury) | € 1.000 |
| Category 2 | € 2.500 |
| Category 3 | € 5.000 |
| Category 4 | € 10.000 |
| Category 5 | € 20.000 |
| Category 6 (serious permanent injury) | € 35.000 |
| Death | € 5.000 - € 35.000 |
Conditions for an application
- It is recommended to file a police report, but this is not always mandatory
- The violent crime must have been committed intentionally
- The injuries must be significant
- The application must be submitted within 10 years after the incident
Steps for an application
- Complete the application form on the website schadefonds.nl
- Attach relevant medical documents
- If available, include police reports
- The Compensation Fund will carefully review your application
- Expect a decision within a few months
Relation to a civil case
A benefit from the Compensation Fund is independent of a legal procedure against the perpetrator. You can pursue both tracks. Any compensation received via a civil case will be deducted from the fund's benefit.
Can I receive a benefit if the perpetrator is unknown?
Yes, you can also submit an application without a known perpetrator. However, it must be demonstrable that you are a victim of a violent crime.Is this the same as compensation from the perpetrator?
No, the Compensation Fund provides a financial allowance that is often lower than the actual damage. The purpose is recognition, not full compensation.How is the category of my injury determined?
The Compensation Fund assesses the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life based on the submitted medical information.Local information for Leiden
For legal support in Leiden, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. For cases that go to court, the Rechtbank Den Haag, Leiden location, has jurisdiction.
Frequently asked questions about the Compensation Fund
How do I know if my injuries qualify for a benefit?
The Compensation Fund determines the severity of your injury based on medical reports and its influence on your daily life. Minor injuries often fall under category 1 (€1,000), while serious or permanent damage may fall into higher categories. In doubt? Submit an application with all relevant documentation.
Do I need to first initiate a case against the perpetrator?
No, that is not mandatory. The Compensation Fund helps precisely when you cannot recover the damage from the perpetrator. A civil procedure can run concurrently, but is not required.
What is the processing time for an application?
The Compensation Fund aims to make a decision within a few months. The exact time depends on the complexity and completeness of your file. Ensure a complete application to avoid delays.