New money for charities will be ‘spent wisely’ and directed to those ‘most in need’

£285,000 secured by the West Midlands Violence Reduction Unit from the government will be directed to charities in our region who are ‘most in need’.

That’s according to the region’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Waheed Saleem.

The cash will be handed to the VRU and is intended for smaller charities to help them provide critical front line services for children and young people. It is hoped the money will ensure they can meet increased demand as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, as well as continuing their day-to-day activities.

The funds will allow the small charities to continue to support young people at risk of violence. It will also help them adapt support services if necessary. This might mean they invest in technology so they can continue to work, albeit remotely.

Many of the smaller charities in our region carry out a variety of work at community level to support young people and families, including outreach work and drop-in sessions, sports, cultural activity and well-being sessions.

The money will be distributed by the Violence Reduction Unit, which the Police and Crime Commissioner launched in October last year.

Commenting on the newly announced grant for the region, the Deputy PCC Waheed Saleem, said: “It is pleasing to see the government recognises the important work being carried out by our charities here in the West Midlands.

“This money will act as a lifeline to many of the region’s smaller organisations, who do phenomenal things to support our most vulnerable people – often on a shoestring.

“I will promise that this money, whilst not a silver bullet, will be spent wisely and directed to those most in need.”