A pioneering project that has helped hundreds of young victims of crime in Norfolk to rebuild their lives could close due to a lack of funding.
The Young Victims’ Project was piloted in five areas in the UK including Norfolk and comprises adventure holidays for teenage crime victims, one-to-one support and school assemblies to advise on crime prevention. The project has been extremely successful and is likely to be extended around the UK. However, it is unlikely to continue in Norfolk as it is no longer financially viable.
Attempts are currently being made to raise funds to keep the project functioning as currently funding is likely to run out in early 2010.
Norwich North MP Chloe Smith said: “I’m shocked that the government seems to be taking money away from this scheme. If it’s been so successful that it’s being extended nationally then Norfolk should carry on being a central part of that.
“A lot of people come to me and say it feels that the system is stacked against victims of crime. That can be particularly acute for young victims.”
August 25, 2009
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