April 27, 2021 - 1654 views
A research project that has been looking into the impact of local PACT funding has been published by Wrexham Glyndwr University.
The North Wales Police and Community Trust (PACT) is an independent charity that was launched in 1998 to support community initiatives, particularly those in which the police are involved, which aim to improve the quality of life by reducing crime and fear of crime in North Wales.
It has now supported a wide variety of projects, investing over £1,600,000 in communities across North Wales.
For many who are involved in the projects, this is their first interaction with the police. Therefore, making this first contact with police a positive experience can have profound consequences on their future life choices as well as their relationship with the justice system.
The results of the survey have shown PACT to be a valuable tool for both police and communities of North Wales and it is making a real difference.
It is improving the lives of individuals, helping organisations to sustain and grow essential services, helping communities become safer and stronger, and helping North Wales Police to deliver its service more effectively.
Ashley Rogers, PACT Chair of Trustees said: “From Gwynedd in the west across to Flintshire and Wrexham in the east, PACT continues throughout North Wales to support projects that enable positive and sustainable community development.
“This community support has never been more important than right now in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.”
The report includes comments from those who took part in the survey. Some examples of these can be found below:
“One young person we worked with, who was previously troublesome and hard to keep out of criminal system, has begun regularly visiting care homes and supporting residents as a result of programme.”
“[Without PACT] my projects wouldn't have happened, as simple as that.”
“A number of young people at risk of criminality are now on a positive track as a result of engagement with PACT projects.”
“The main impact [for the elderly] is reassurance of police presence – especially for those who are isolated and lonely.”
“Young people have built links with the police and seen them as part of the community – they are not just a faceless organisation.”
To read the full report on the impact that PACT is making in North Wales, please click here.
