The Commissioner visited The Hub at Banks Community and Leisure Centre, where £15,000 has been invested through the Commissioner’s Community Fund to support the “Stay Safe” project.
The funding, secured through the MP funding strand after the project was backed by Patrick Hurley MP, is being used to enhance security and deliver personal safety programmes for young people and women.
During the visit, the Commissioner met with those delivering the project, toured the facility, and heard how the improvements are helping rebuild confidence and reassurance within the community.
The project includes upgraded security measures alongside self-defence and personal safety sessions designed to help people feel safer and more confident in their day-to-day lives.
The initiative has been designed to support the community following the tragic events in Southport in 2024, ensuring that local people can continue to access a safe, trusted space for activities and support.
Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said:
“It was important to visit the Hub and see first-hand how this funding is supporting the local community.
“We know how important it is that people feel safe and confident using local spaces. This project is helping to provide that reassurance, while also giving people practical skills and support.
“By reinvesting money taken from criminals, we are supporting community-led initiatives that make a real difference and help keep people safe.”
Annie Ives, Trustee at the centre said, “We are delighted to receive a grant from the PCC and would like to thank our MP, Patrick Hurley, who is a big supporter of The Hub at Banks. The funding means we can improve our security and extend our programme of free summer holiday activities at the centre. In July and August we will be offering self defence classes for families, women and girls. This is designed to increase confidence and make our community safer.”
Patrick Hurley, MP for Southport and the Northern Parishes, said:
“I’m pleased to see The Hub@Banks secure this funding, and I’m glad my office could support the application. The Hub is a fantastic community asset, and this investment will help it continue delivering for local people.
“I’ll continue championing organisations like The Hub and working to bring investment into areas like Banks wherever I can.”
The Commissioner’s Community Fund uses money recovered from criminals to invest in projects that prevent crime, improve safety, and strengthen communities across Lancashire. To find out more and how to apply visit https://www.lancashire-pcc.gov.uk/grant-funding/
ENDS
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