Fund will protect and support victims of crime

The Cheshire Crimefighting Fund has been created for community organisations whose work is carried out in support of, or in conjunction with, the police to protect and support victims of crime.

An initial £25,000 has been donated to the fund – cash generated from the auction of seized property connected to criminal investigations. The Police Property Act allows for that money to be used for charitable purposes that support the work of the police.

The Constabulary now wants to hear from charities and community organisations in Cheshire and Warrington, whose focus is to help prevent and manage certain types of crime, such as cyber-crime, human trafficking, child sexual exploitation, as well as those organisations that help manage the fear of crime.

Deputy Chief Constable Janette McCormick said: “In Cheshire, one of our main priorities is to ensure that we are here for victims when and where they need us. We know there are many valuable projects and initiatives in our communities that support us in this endeavour and I’m eager to hear from them.

“The money donated has been raised through the sale of goods linked to illegal activities – crimes that often have a profound effect on those that these organisations do so much good work to support. I’m delighted to be able to launch the Cheshire Crimefighting Fund.”

The fund is administered by Cheshire Community Foundation, which connects people and businesses that want and can help, with the people that need it most. Projects are often able to secure additional donations from other funds managed by the Foundation.

Zoe Sheppard, CEO of Cheshire Community Foundation, said: “The Cheshire Crimefighting Fund will directly help to protect and support victims of crime in the county. We are delighted that the force has chosen Cheshire Community Foundation to administer the fund on its behalf.

“We are passionate about matching donors with the most deserving projects in Cheshire and Warrington. This fund is particularly important because it will directly help some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”

Organisations or community projects can apply for funding from the Cheshire Crimefighting Fund by visiting www.cheshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk or calling 01606 330607.