Bidding for projects to commence again
Charities, organisations and partners will again be able to bid for projects that work with offenders in their areas and help integrate them back into the community.
Applications will be reviewed by representatives from the four local ‘Reducing Reoffending Boards’ covering the north, south, east and west of the county.
Up to £25k will be available for each board area, however organisations are encouraged to work across multiple areas where possible and this will be taken into account during the process, as will the ability to deliver projects for less than the maximum grant amount, which is also £25k.
Successful applications will need to focus on the outcomes of projects, how they will be measured or evaluated, and how it will be delivered during probable ongoing social distancing measures.
The reopening of the fund coincides with the appointment of a new Independent Chair of the Local Reducing Reoffending Boards.
Paul Withers took the post in April, following on from inaugural chair and former Chief Constable Jerry Graham, and is responsible for ensuring that each board is consistent and meeting the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan Priorities.
Launching the Fund for 2020, the Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said:
“I’m really pleased to be able to continue investing in projects that are ultimately all about keeping the people of Lancashire safe. By addressing the root causes of prolific reoffending through targeted work, out in our communities, we help ex-offenders avoid a return into the criminal justice system, lessen the burden on our emergency services and reduce crime.
“This gives us another opportunity to build on the great work that has already been done in the over two years that we have supported projects through the dedicated fund. Policing alone does not prevent people reoffending and we need to work together to break the cycle offenders all too often find themselves in, moving them away from a life of crime.
“I have seen first-hand the difference these projects make in our neighbourhoods and in the lives of the people who live there. Tackling crime and reoffending is a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan and by working with partners to support the delivery of these projects we are delivering value for money, whilst helping people turn their lives around.”
Paul Withers, Independent Chair of the Local Reducing Reoffending Boards said:
“It has been fantastic to work with people who are committed to reducing reoffending and making Lancashire a better and safer place.
“Projects like those that the fund has supported previously really do make a difference. The work of our local reducing reoffending boards highlights the need for partnership working and time and again we see how interventions which take place at the right time, in the right way, reduce reoffending, improve our communities and often, ultimately, save lives.”
The Fund is now open until Monday 3rd August 2020 at 5pm. For more information and to apply visit the funding section of the website.
