The Violence Crimes Compensation Fund provides financial support to victims of violent crimes and their next of kin in situations where the perpetrator is unable to compensate for the damage. This fund is an important resource for residents of Leiden and surrounding areas.
What does the Compensation Fund do?
The Violence Crimes Compensation Fund (SGM) acts as a safety net for people who have become victims of intentional violent crimes. If the perpetrator cannot pay for the damage suffered, the victim can apply to the fund for a one-time benefit.
Conditions for a benefit
- It concerns an intentional violent crime
- The crime took place in the Netherlands
- There is serious physical or mental injury
- The application is submitted within 10 years after the crime
- The perpetrator is unable to pay the damage
Which crimes fall under the fund?
The Compensation Fund provides support for the following violent crimes:
- Assault resulting in serious injury
- Sexual violence such as rape or indecent assault
- Robberies involving violence
- Attempted manslaughter or murder
- Human trafficking
- Stalking with serious psychological or physical impact
How much is the benefit?
The benefit from the Compensation Fund is a financial compensation and not full compensation for the damage. Victims can receive a maximum of €35,000, while next of kin can receive up to €27,500. The amount is determined based on the severity of the injury.
Injury classification and amounts
The fund uses different categories for injuries:
- Category 1: minor injury - €1,000
- Category 2: moderate injury - €2,500
- Category 3: serious injury - €5,000
- Up to category 6: extremely severe injury - €35,000
How to submit an application?
An application for a benefit can be submitted digitally via the official website of the Compensation Fund. In Leiden, victims can also receive support from Victim Support Netherlands or contact the Legal Counter Leiden at Stationsweg 46 for advice.
Contact and help in Leiden
For legal assistance or questions about a case, you can go to the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location. In addition, the Legal Counter Leiden offers practical help in submitting an application or obtaining information about your rights as a victim.
Frequently asked questions about the Compensation Fund
Who is eligible for a benefit?
Victims of intentional violent crimes and their next of kin can apply for a benefit, provided the crime took place in the Netherlands, the perpetrator cannot pay, and there is serious injury. The application must be submitted within 10 years. Victim Support Netherlands offers help in Leiden.
What is the maximum amount I can receive?
The maximum benefit is €35,000 for victims and €27,500 for next of kin. The exact amount depends on the severity of the injury, classified in categories from €1,000 to €35,000.
Which violent crimes are covered?
The fund covers crimes such as serious assault, sexual violence, violent robberies, attempted murder, human trafficking, and stalking with serious consequences, provided they took place in the Netherlands.
What if the perpetrator refuses to pay but is able to?
If the perpetrator refuses to pay while able to do so, you can take legal action through the court. The Compensation Fund only intervenes if the perpetrator is financially unable. Contact a lawyer or Victim Support in Leiden.
How do I apply for a benefit in Leiden?
You can submit an application online via the Compensation Fund's website. Ensure you have evidence such as police reports and medical records. For help, you can go to Victim Support Netherlands or the Legal Counter Leiden at Stationsweg 46.