From April 1 2015, Police and Crime Commissioners took on responsibility for commissioning locally most of the emotional and practical support services for victims of crime that are provided by the voluntary and community sector.
The Commissioner has been allocated £2,344,273 in funding by the Ministry of Justice to commission victim services and £625,140 for restorative justice. Services commissioned will form part of a complex and varied network of support that exists for victims, to ensure the needs of victims are met through improved services.
In September 2015, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner received 50 applications for funding for services of victims after providers were invited to put forward proposals for services to help victims cope and recover from the impacts of crime. An assessment panel met and made recommendations to the Commissioner based on the criteria within the application form and the proposals submitted. This process ensures that the Commissioner works with and funds a broad range of organisation from the voluntary and community sector, all who have a shared interest in delivering positive outcomes and improved services for victims. Annex 1 sets out the funding awarded in the first round.
