Tackling reoffending
Nine projects based across Lancashire have received grants of up to £25,000 for a variety of different schemes that ultimately engage offenders and their families, work with them in their areas and help integrate them back into the community.
This builds on the money given to projects last year which have worked to reduce reoffending across the entire county, taking into account the concerns and needs of local people with input from the four local ‘Reducing Reoffending Boards’ which include Lancashire Constabulary, local authorities and probation.
Last year, the Commissioner also oversaw the appointment of a new Independent Chair for these local boards to ensure consistency in each area and that they work towards the priorities in his Police and Crime Plan and the county’s Reducing Reoffending Strategy. Since launching the fund in 2018, £420,000 has been provided to 26 schemes across Lancashire and the Commissioner has visited a number of these over the last 12 months.
He said:
“In just over a year I have seen first-hand a number of the projects already helping people move away from a life of crime and integrate back in the community, which make our neighbourhoods safer.
“Tackling crime and reoffending is a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan and by investing into initiatives that recognise the drivers that often lead to criminal behaviour and focusing on prevention, we are making a real difference in the lives of those that get back on the right track and also for the wider community.
“This is not an issue which policing can tackle alone and working in partnership with organisations who know what is needed in their area plays a key role in reducing reoffending, which can only be a good thing.”
Projects receiving funding:
– Red Rose Recovery – £25,000
– The Well Communities CIC – £15,000
– Maundy Relief Trust – £22,382
– Community Solutions North West – £13,000
– Burnley FC In The Community – £12,680
– Active Lancashire – £19,000
– The Foxton Centre – £20,500
– AFC Fylde Community Foundation – £20,000
– The Princes Trust – £25,000
