Bedfordshire PCC secures £195,000 to support victims of early prisoner release
Funding aims to enhance local support for those affected
John Tizard, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire, has obtained £195,000 from the Ministry of Justice to strengthen support for victims affected by the early release of prisoners.
This funding will be distributed in collaboration with existing providers of support and advocacy services for crime victims in the county.
Some organisations will receive additional backing from the PCC to ensure victims can access vital safeguarding and support where necessary.
Local support will be coordinated through Bedfordshire Victims Support (BVS), which is financed by both the PCC and MoJ.
BVS will partner closely with the Probation Service to assist those impacted by the early release scheme.
The PCC encourages individuals who feel concerned, vulnerable, or affected by the changes to seek assistance.
PCC John Tizard expressed his approval of the MoJ's recognition that victims affected by crimes from prisoners on the early release programme need support.
He stated, "This funding allows us to build on and extend our existing support services in Bedfordshire, some of which already support victims when prisoners are released. Victims must remain at the heart of our criminal justice system."
While acknowledging the prison system's pressures and supporting the government's early release plans, Mr Tizard emphasised the importance of victims feeling safe and confident that their concerns are addressed seriously.