Preston and South Ribble Street Pastors receive £12k to help them support vulnerable and homeless people

Lancs-PCC-Clive-Grunshaw-with-Street-Pastors — Lancshire PCC Clive Grunshaw with Street Pastors – during a visit to see their work pre-pandemic

Organisations who support vulnerable people across Lancashire will benefit from over £45,000 thanks to Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw.

Five groups successfully applied to the Commissioner’s dedicated fund for street pastors, street angels and similar organisations.

Preston and South Ribble Street Pastors were allocated £12,000.

The groups which were given money include trained volunteers who patrol the streets of their community, supporting the homeless and other vulnerable people.

They work to prevent violent incidents escalating, and support night-time revellers, something they will do again when coronavirus restrictions are eased.

Funding will be used by the groups to help them train and equip new volunteers, upskill current volunteers and for resources such as drinks and food to give out to vulnerable people.

Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw said: “I’m delighted to be able to continue supporting the important work that that organisations like this do to make our streets safer and support some vulnerable people.

“Over the last twelve months more than ever, we have seen the positive impact that volunteers have across our community through the work they do and the time they give up give support to those who need it.

“By offering support and advice, they help resolve potential incidents before they require police officers or paramedics, reducing the need for frontline services to intervene.

“They also provide what can be a lifeline to those living on the streets, who may feel more able to seek additional help when they have become familiar with a person or group.”

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