A vital responsibility of Police and Crime Commissioners is to fund projects, services, and initiatives that enhance community safety, reduce offending, and support victims of crime.
As part of this commitment, I will be updating my existing Commissioning Strategy to align seamlessly with the priorities outlined in the new Police and Crime Plan. This refresh will ensure our approach remains focused, effective, and responsive to the needs of Surrey’s communities.
The following sections outline the key areas of investment and the support that each provides to residents.
Victim Services
Since October 2014, Police and Crime Commissioners in England and Wales have been entrusted with the vital role of commissioning support services for victims and witnesses of crime. For me, as Surrey’s PCC, this responsibility is not just a statutory duty—it’s a personal commitment to ensure every victim has access to the help they need.
Each year, my office receives around £1.4 million from the Ministry of Justice to fund these crucial services. On top of this, we regularly submit bids for additional government funding (see page 11) to support targeted initiatives. Where needed, I also allocate a portion of our internal budget to enhance these resources, ensuring no victim is left without support.
In Surrey, we allocate victim funding across two key areas—both accessible to all Surrey residents, whether or not they’ve chosen to report their experience to the police. This approach ensures that support is always available, no matter the circumstances.
- Victim Referral, Assessment, and Support
In April 2019, my team established the Victim and Witness Care Unit (VAWCU) in partnership with Surrey Police to provide tailored support for victims and witnesses of crime. Every victim in Surrey is automatically referred to the Unit when a crime is reported, with follow-up care based on individual needs and vulnerabilities. Self-referrals and access to specialist services are also available via our dedicated website: victimandwitnesscare.org.uk.
The Unit offers an end-to-end service, from initial contact through to court and beyond, ensuring victims and witnesses receive the guidance and care they need every step of the way. To maintain its high standards, my team chairs regular meetings to oversee its development and performance.
- Specialist Support Services
Some victims and survivors require specialist, long-term support to rebuild their lives – particularly those affected by domestic abuse, sexual offences or child exploitation.
Through dedicated funding, I ensure these individuals can access expert, targeted support, delivered primarily by local independent organisations and third-sector providers. This support is tailored to meet the unique needs of each person, helping them move forward with their lives.
- Reducing Reoffending Fund
The Reducing Reoffending Fund supports services and projects aimed at breaking the cycle of reoffending in Surrey. Commissioning activity is aligned to the HMPPS Reducing Reoffending Plan, tackling key criminogenic factors such as a lack of suitable housing, employment and education, relationships and substance misuse.
- Community Safety Fund
The Community Safety Fund is used to commission projects and services that address community safety concerns and improve local areas. Complementing the Reducing Reoffending Fund and Victim’s Fund, it offers flexibility to meet the unique needs of Surrey’s communities.
- Children and Young People Fund
Launched in 2023, the Children and Young People Fund supports local organisations dedicated to helping children and young people lead safe, fulfilling lives. Through this fund, I provide resources to protect children from harm, exploitation, and criminality, to reduce risks, and create opportunities in education, training, and employment.
Transparent and accountable funding
Just as I prioritise providing residents with clear information about Surrey Police’s performance, I am equally committed to transparency in funding local services.
My team utilises a professional funding management platform to ensure an accessible and efficient experience for funding applicants. This system also enables us to openly share funding data with residents through our website, fostering trust and accountability.
More information can be found on our website: https://www.surrey-pcc.gov.uk/funding/
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