Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen has welcomed new government funding to help meet the additional costs of supporting victims impacted by early release plans for some prisoners.
Under new proposals, the PCC has secured extra funding worth £195k from the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) over the next three years to strengthen support for people directly impacted by the early release scheme to reduce prison overcrowding.
While the PCC welcomed the new investment and the increased recognition being given to victims of crime, she said it was a ‘drop in the ocean’ of what was really needed to improve the justice journey for victims of crime – and reiterated the need for an urgent overhaul of the funding formula to sustain services long-term.
Nationally, the MoJ has announced £18.9m investment in victims services as part of the new model, with the first prisoners qualifying for early release due to walk out of prison on 1 October.
Part of the extra cash will enable Victim Support to deliver a national helpline providing information, advice and emotional support for victims impacted by the early release scheme.
Funding will also be channelled into support services for victims of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), including men and boys, alongside the new PCC Surge Fund which will see PCCs receiving £195k for services over the next three years.
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen said: “This is a positive approach, and I welcome the Prime Minister and Justice Secretary’s recognition that increased investment in victim support is needed.
“However, a one-off payment will not solve the wider issues nor the chronic under-funding of victims’ services overall. Demand is growing, compounded by the ongoing backlog of cases waiting to reach court.
“Victims services are not an optional extra – they are crucial to keeping victims engaged in the justice process, ensuring they cope and recover from their experiences and are critically protected from re-victimisation.
“They must be the backbone of our justice system – first and foremost in everything we do. This is why delivering a first-class service to all victims of crime remains a fundamental priority in my Police, Crime and Justice Plan.
“I’m pleased the Government is listening to campaigners and victims about the impact of these changes and is committed to improving their experiences. Extra funding is always welcomed, but properly funded forces are vital to delivering future sustainability and the consistency of support necessary to improving outcomes and increasing confidence in our justice system.”
The PCC welcomed the Government’s decision to block the early release of offenders convicted of unlawful killing, which includes death by dangerous driving, describing it as a victory for victims, bereaved families and common sense.
The decision followed mounting anger from the public, supported by the Chief Constables of every force, that the killers of PC Andrew Harper would be released significantly earlier than planned.
Recognised nationally as a road safety expert, Joy Allen has been campaigning for the Government to recognise the devastating impact of fatal road crime and ensure that those responsible for taking a life behind the wheel are treated with the seriousness their offences deserve.
