Non-Freezing Cold Injury (NFCI)

NFCI (Cold Weather Injury) Claims

Non-Freezing Cold Injury occurs when the body is exposed to wet, cold conditions for prolonged periods without tissue freezing. In military settings this often affects: 

Hands and fingers when operating in harsh weather without adequate protection

Feet and toes after long patrols or sentry duty

How NFCI Develops in Service

Cold injuries often arise from:
NFCI is widely viewed as preventable when proper safeguards are in place.

Symptoms of NFCI

Symptoms commonly include:
These symptoms can persist for life.

Claim Eligibility

Claims can still be possible even if you previously applied under military compensation schemes.

You developed NFCI after service starting post-1987

You were exposed to prolonged cold or wet conditions

Inadequate boots,Adequate equipment, training or protection was not provided

Early symptoms were overlooked or ignored clothing or gloves

Time Limits

Most claims must be started within three years of when you first became aware that your cold weather injury was linked to your military service. This may be when symptoms such as persistent pain, numbness, cold sensitivity, or circulation problems were first diagnosed or explained to you as service-related.

If you’re unsure when this time limit began, we can help you assess your individual circumstances.

How We Support NFCI Claims?

01

Service history review

We assess training exercises, deployments and equipment usage.

02

Evidence collection

Solicitors help gather medical records and specialist reports.

03

Case building

Claims focus on negligence such as inadequate planning, equipment shortages or failure to intervene early.

04

Pursuit of compensation

Compensation may include pain, lost earnings, reduced employment opportunities and future care needs.

FAQs

Here are some of the answers to frequently asked questions. If you cannot find what you’re looking for here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us and our team of veterans will happily answer any queries.
I was told I just wasn’t good in the cold — do I still have a claim?
Possibly. If your injury occurred because reasonable measures weren’t taken, negligence may apply.
Yes. Military discharge and career loss can significantly increase claim value.

Yes. Claims are handled under No Win, No Fee agreements through specialist firms. The recommended solicitor will charge a fee of 25% (including VAT) of your compensation. If you cancel after the cooling-off period, a termination fee may apply. Please refer to the solicitor’s terms and conditions for details.

Start your free military injury claim check

Tell us a few quick details about your service and symptoms. Our team of veterans will review your case and contact you to discuss your eligibility.