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New funding to support Covid-hit communities

Money seized from criminals will be used to support those hit hardest by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Published
.The cash has been seized from criminals under the proceeds of crime act

A total of £170,000 is being made available over the next six months, with the funds distributed to volunteers helping those most in need.

The cash has been seized from criminals by the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner under the proceeds of crime act.

The money will now be used to target organisations that offer support to people whose lives have been made harder by Covid-19.

The initiative is designed to help the vulnerable, homeless and the elderly, who have all become extremely isolated with many shielding from the virus.

Nineteens areas, which have been identified as being places of high deprivation, will be prioritised as grants of up to £5,000 per applicant are rolled out.

The new grant follows £200,000 that the commissioner had already made available in May.

Waheed Saleem, West Midlands Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “The first tranche of Covid funding has already made its way to the front line and has been put to good use.

"It has supported some of the most vulnerable in our community.

“It is right that where ill-gotten gains can be recovered from criminals that the money should be directed to those that need it most.

“This new initiative will offer help to people who are struggling. We know that if you can reduce suffering you can also reduce crime."

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