Crimefighting Fund celebrates a successful first 18 months

Cheshire Police’s Crimefighting Fund is celebrating a successful first 18 months supporting community organisations.

The fund was created for supporting organisations which help the police to protect and support victims of crime. An initial £25,000 was donated to the fund in April 2016 – cash which was generated from the auction of seized and unclaimed property – with a further £40,000 donated in September.

The funding is then distributed with the advice of the Cheshire Community Foundation.

Chief Inspector Alan Fairclough said: “I have the pleasure of working with the Cheshire Community Foundation Grants Panel which has provided me with improved knowledge of charitable law and applications which I have cascaded to our staff who volunteer in charities.

“So far the Crimefighting fund has granted £51,000 to help 11 local charities to provide support to over 6,500 beneficiaries to reduce vulnerability, crime and improve safety.  This includes Cheshire Anti-Slavery network, The Hardman Trust and Women’s Housing Action Group.

“I was particularly impressed with the Youth Federation bid in July 2017 who are tackling the growing concerns around cyber security threats and the shortfall in cyber professionals.

“Through school events across Cheshire, the half-day sessions are enabling over 200 female students to learn more about the cyber industry, cyber security careers and to take part in coding and encryption challenges. As a result of the events more young girls will also be better informed about their career options in the cyber industry.”

Zoe Sheppard, CEO of the Cheshire Community Foundation, said: “We are thrilled with the impact the Cheshire Crimefighting Fund has had over the last 18 months and the partnership that has developed between our two organisations. Cheshire Police have funded a great number of incredibly worthwhile projects tackling issues which are prevalent but widely overlooked, including modern slavery and cyber-crime which can have a devastating effect on our local community.”

Acting Chief Constable, Janette McCormick, said: “We are delighted that we have been able to support so many people locally who are in real need of support. Cheshire Community Foundation has connected us to some incredible charities who are working with people in our local community to tackle real issues, changing many lives for the better.”

If you would like some advice on how to apply for a grant or further details of the projects supported then please visit www.cheshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk

Image: The Cheshire Community Foundation Grant Panel