The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling violence affecting young people as he welcomed renewed funding for the region’s Violence Reduction Partnership for a further year.
He joined the partnership’s annual conference earlier this week to formally announce the funding position and to acknowledge the positive impact the work has had on young people across the West Midlands.
This week’s conference which was held in Coventry, was attended by over a hundred professionals and partners, and laid out the direction for the next 12 months.
The West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership has been provisionally allocated £4.3 million for April 2026 – March 2027, which will enable it to continue the important work they are leading on, to ensure the region has a robust approach to preventing and reducing violence.
The funding will ensure there is continuity of a number of projects directly supporting some of the most vulnerable young people in the West Midlands.
“I am pleased the Home Office has renewed funding for our VRP to continue essential support for our children and young people,” PCC Simon Foster said.
“While I welcome this news, it is important to note, the funding amount is the same as last year – which actually does mean a reduction once we consider inflation costs, and the potential effect this will have on delivery of activity.
“Young people require attention, time and investment into building strong and sustainable sources of support for them.
“One life lost to violence is one too many. We need consistent commitment, to longer term funding settlements to ensure the safety and security of our children and young people.”
