Charities and non-profit organisations that support the recovery of victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence are being invited to bid for funding to help mitigate the impact of criminal justice delays.

Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has launched a specialist round of his Commissioner's Safety Fund to help domestic abuse and sexual violence services providing support to the increasing number of victims and witnesses affected by the delays in the Criminal Justice System.

Like many areas, the East Midlands region saw an unprecedented build-up of court cases during the pandemic, translating into longer waiting times for victims. This has increased the length of time victims have required support during their justice journey and fuelled additional demand for support services. 

In response, the Commissioner, who was recently appointed Chair of the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Local Criminal Justice Board, is allocating grants of up to £10,000 for organisations, community groups and charities that can demonstrate how they have been impacted by criminal justice delays and how they aim to positively address these issues. 

He is keen to receive applications for projects which support victims directly whilst their cases are progressing through the criminal justice system. 

Providers have until Friday the 9th of December to apply.

Mr Matthews said: "Victims are at the heart of everything I do as Commissioner. The current delays in the court system are unacceptable and I am working hard with my colleagues to address these problems. 

"The criminal justice system can be a daunting experience which is why I want to ensure our support services are well-equipped and resourced to continue providing help for however long it is needed. 

"Our specialist support workers are working incredibly hard to respond to the needs of victims in challenging and demanding circumstances. I hope this funding will alleviate some of those pressures and ensure survivors can rely on receiving the long-term support they deserve."

The Commissioner's Safety Fund is worth £650k over a two-year period (2021-22 and 2022-23). 

There are six rounds of funding per year with each offer alternating between specialist and non-specialist invitations for grants. 

Grants will be awarded to organisations which support the Commissioner's Police and Crime Plan priorities. 

For more information and to apply, head to the Leicestershire and Rutland Police website.