Norfolk Police sell confiscated and lost property to fund charities across the county

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As the old saying goes, “one person’s loss is another person’s gain.” This couldn’t be truer in the case of items confiscated by the police, which have now been sold to fund charities and organizations in the local area. The Police Property Act Fund, which generates money through the sale of these confiscated goods and lost property that cannot be returned to their owners, has been a game-changer for many community groups. Recently, 13 organizations across the county have benefited from this initiative, and it’s a testament to the power of community spirit and the dedication of local leaders who are passionate about making a difference. Norfolk Police and Crime Commissioner, Sarah Taylor, has been at the forefront of this effort, working tirelessly to ensure that the funds are used to support the constabulary and communities across the county.
The story of how this fund came to be is an interesting one. Commissioner Taylor was shocked to discover that over £350,000 had accrued as a result of the Police Property Fund Act over recent years. She was determined to use this money to make a positive impact on the community, rather than letting it sit idle. As someone who is deeply committed to building cohesive communities, she believes that safety is not just about policing, but about creating a sense of security, value, and support for everyone. With this in mind, she worked closely with Chief Constable Paul Sanford to make the funding decisions, and the results are nothing short of inspiring. From football clubs to youth organizations, the list of beneficiaries is diverse and exciting, and it’s clear that this funding is going to make a real difference in the lives of many people.
One of the organizations that has benefited from the fund is Gaywood Football Club, which received £482.87 to purchase new footballs and goals for the Under-13s girls team and Mini Kickers. This may seem like a small amount, but for a local football club, it’s a significant boost. The club can now provide better facilities and equipment for its young players, which will not only improve their skills but also give them a sense of pride and belonging. Another organization that has benefited is Family Action in Lynn, which received £2,500 to buy new equipment for its Escape Project, which supports those with special needs. This funding will enable the project to provide even more innovative and engaging activities for its participants, and it’s a shining example of how this funding is being used to support some of the most vulnerable members of the community.
The list of beneficiaries goes on, with organizations like Upwell and Outwell Youth Club, Caring Together, and Mr Bee’s Family Centre all receiving significant funding. These organizations are the lifeblood of the community, providing vital services and support to those who need it most. The fact that they are now able to access this funding is a testament to the power of community spirit and the dedication of leaders like Commissioner Taylor. As she says, “I hope these small grants will make a difference countywide.” It’s clear that they already are, and it’s exciting to think about the potential impact that this funding could have in the long term. From providing activities for young people in care to developing a garden that will become a safe space for the community, the projects that are being funded are diverse, innovative, and deeply meaningful.
Commissioner Taylor’s commitment to building cohesive communities is evident in everything she does. As she says, “safety is more than just policing, it’s about building cohesive communities where everyone feels secure, valued and supported in the place where they live.” This philosophy is at the heart of her Police and Crime Plan, and it’s clear that she is dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of people across the county. By working with community groups and organizations, she is able to get a sense of what’s really needed on the ground, and to target funding accordingly. It’s a collaborative approach that is already yielding impressive results, and it’s exciting to think about what the future might hold. As Commissioner Taylor says, “I was really encouraged to have received a broad range of applications from grassroots groups and organizations that deliver a wide range of activities for both young and older people.”
In conclusion, the Police Property Act Fund is a powerful example of how community spirit and leadership can come together to make a real difference. By selling confiscated items and using the proceeds to fund local organizations, Commissioner Taylor and her team are able to support a wide range of initiatives that benefit people of all ages. From football clubs to youth organizations, the list of beneficiaries is diverse and exciting, and it’s clear that this funding is going to have a lasting impact on the community. As Commissioner Taylor says, “I am strongly of the view that this money should have been used to support the constabulary and communities across our county, so I am pleased that the first round of grant funding has been made, which is the first step in correcting that position.” It’s a new chapter in the story of community funding, and one that promises to bring many benefits to the people of Norfolk. With leaders like Commissioner Taylor at the helm, the future is looking bright, and it’s exciting to think about what the next chapter might hold.