West Norfolk charity’s £200k grant for new scheme

A West Norfolk-based charity has been awarded more than £200,000 of funding for a new scheme providing support for sex workers in the county.

The Pandora Project has been given the funding by the office of Norfolk’s police and crime commissioner, Lorne Green, to run the programme for the next three years.

The scheme, which will be called the Phoenix Project, is designed to help off-street workers who may be at risk of becoming victims of human trafficking or modern slavery.

The programme will provide dedicated support workers across the county, including one for the Lynn area, also work with police to identify and help victims.

Project founder Tracy Mahoney yesterday said she was “thrilled” by the £214,000 grant, which has been allocated from a Hidden Victims Fund set up by Mr Green’s office.

She said: “Support from Phoenix will empower women, providing the tools for them to remain in control of their lives. Safety is paramount, and we will work to increase the safety of this very vulnerable client group.

“We believe that every woman has the right to be safe and free from abuse.”

Mr Green said: “Crimes such as modern slavery, stalking and harassment and hate crime for example, are often under-reported and we need to do more to support and encourage victims to come forward.

“This is a significant investment, but one which I believe is hugely important for Norfolk and I am proud to be able to make such a commitment.

“My office is delighted to be working with Pandora in delivering such a vital project for the county.

“Together we can work to make a real difference.”

Mr Green’s office is also giving around £90,000 to the St Giles Trust to fund work designed to support young people at risk of exploitation.

The charity has also been given around £87,000 of funding from the Home Office.

Assistant chief constable Nick Davison added: “These projects will be invaluable in helping to support some of the most vulnerable adults and children in our communities.”