South East Police Get Millions to Tackle Violent Crime
Sussex and Hampshire police forces are set to receive up to £880,000 each. Meanwhile, Kent and Thames Valley forces will each pocket up to £1.16 million in fresh funding. This cash is part of a wider crackdown on serious violence across England and Wales.
Violence Reduction Units: The Frontline Against Crime
Violence Reduction Units (VRUs) bring local agencies together to fight violent crime at its roots. They back vital community projects aimed at steering children and young people away from gangs and serious offences. This latest funding for 2021/22 marks the third year of support to 18 units nationwide.
- Total national investment hits £105.5 million.
- Targets areas hardest hit by violent crime.
- Supports initiatives from counselling to prevention work.
On the Ground in Hampshire
In Hampshire, VRU projects include phone counselling for youngsters battling low self-esteem, therapeutic gardening allotments for those at risk of school exclusion, and early intervention with families facing criminal exploitation threats. These hands-on efforts aim to stop violence before it starts.
Government Vows to Keep Up the Fight
“We are committed to tackling crime in our communities and stopping young lives being shattered by violence,” said Policing Minister Kit Malthouse.
“Violence Reduction Units in the South East are a key part of this, bringing together local leaders in health, education, police and other agencies to address the root causes of serious violence.
“This funding will allow the vital long-term work they have already started to continue, in order to get a grip on this crucial issue and drive down violent crime.”
More Cash for Winter and Police Boost
Besides this funding boost, over £2 million is slotted into a winter contingency fund. This goes to local charities and social enterprises supporting vulnerable youth during lockdown.
The Government is also on track to add 20,000 extra police officers over three years — with 6,620 already recruited. Since 2019, it has pumped £106.5 million into police forces most hit by violence, a separate pot from the VRU cash.
Communities across the South East hope these efforts will finally turn the tide on violent crime.
