Funding boost for projects supporting victims of crime and protecting the vulnerable

Over £1.5 million has been awarded to 47 projects across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to help support victims of crime and protect the vulnerable from exploitation.

The funding, from Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones, will also focus on reducing anti-social behaviour and preventing people from re-offending.

Donna Jones said: “While my number one priority is to put more officers on the streets, helping keep people safe and feel safer takes more than just the police alone.

“That’s why the work these organisations do is vital.

“Whether it’s working with offenders to prevent them returning to a life of crime or educating communities about gender and honour-based violence, the variety of support here is a key component in supporting victims and reducing offending.”

This round of funding sees a strong focus on projects that educate young people at risk of offending, reducing anti-social behaviour, and protecting the vulnerable from exploitation.

Example projects include:

Turnstyle Fighting Chance – An Olympian-led school programme using sport, mentoring and lived experience to change lives.

Politely Rebellious Next Gen – An early intervention designed to empower young people in Havant, Gosport and Fareham to take control of their Digital Footprint and reduce the risk of digital exploitation.

Yellow Brick Road Projects – The Andover-based charity’s Legacy Plus project offers one-to-one mentoring and group social skills development to young people in the Test Valley, Rushmoor and Basingstoke at most risk of harm.

Community Action Isle of Wight – Outreach and workshops for young people at risk of exploitation.

Isle of Wight Street Pastors – They promote the protection and safety of all people congregating on the streets and in public places.

Donna Jones said: “Young people need the right support at the right time to reduce the risk of being drawn into crime, maximise their full potential, and help them live positive lives.

“I have funded a number of projects that focus on working with those identified as vulnerable or at risk to tackle the causes of their behaviour and prevent issues from escalating.”

These projects all support priorities set out by the Commissioner in her Police and Crime Plan.