North-east groups supporting victims of crime urged to apply for funding

Aberdeenshire East MSP Gillian Martin is encouraging organisations that support victims of crime to apply for funding financed by penalties imposed on all offenders who receive a court fine.

The £350,000 Victim Surcharge Fund, which is now in its fourth year, aims to provide direct and practical help to victims.

This includes repairing or replacing damaged items, providing replacement clothes for people escaping domestic abuse, or equipment that helps people impacted by crime feel safe.

Since its introduction in 2019, more than £900,000 has been paid out to 11 organisations supporting victims and survivors of crime, including Victim Support Scotland, Angus Women’s Aid and the Manda Centre.

Ms Martin said: “We know the impact of crime on victims can be devastating. This is why the Scottish Government is investing in law enforcement, crime prevention and reducing reoffending through a range of activity.

“In the past five years, £93 million has been invested to support victims and we are committed to putting victims at the heart of the justice system.

“Since its creation, the Victim Surcharge Fund has provided more than £900,000 to help support victims recover from their experience.

“I would like to encourage victim support organisations in the north-east to apply for the funding so that victims and survivors can continue to access the support and help that they need.”

Victims' organisations interested in applying to the fund can request an application form by emailing VictimSurchargefund@gov.scot and should apply by the October 27, 2023 deadline.

Previous recipients have included Victim Support Scotland, The Moira Fund, The Manda Centre, Angus Women’s Aid and Dumbarton District Women’s Aid.

The victim surcharge came into force in Scotland on November 25, 2019 and applies to all people who commit an offence on or after that date and who are subsequently convicted and receive a court fine.