Funding to support LGBTQ+ victims of crime

Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd is funding specialist support for LGBTQ+ young people affected by crime.

The Commissioner has awarded funding to Gwent-based charity Umbrella Cymru to deliver the Safe and Supported project for young people under the age of 25.

The project provides trauma-informed support tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ young people, including emotional wellbeing support, safety planning, guidance on reporting options, and advocacy when engaging with services such as the police.

Jane Mudd said: “LGBTQ+ young people are among some of the most vulnerable in our communities. They experience disproportionately high levels of crime, including hate crime, and we know much of this goes unreported. There also remains a high level of mistrust in the police and other public services within LGBTQ+ communities.

“We commission services to support all victims of crime in Gwent, but by providing dedicated support for young LGBTQ+ people, we can break down some of these barriers and ensure that they can access support services tailored to their individual circumstances and needs.”

The project supports the priorities set out in the Commissioner’s Police, Crime and Justice Plan and is partially funded using money recovered from the proceeds of crime. Community groups can apply to the fund for grants ranging from £1,000 to £50,000 to support local initiatives.

An Umbrella Cymru spokesperson said: “LGBTQ+ young people in Gwent face significant challenges that impact their safety, wellbeing, and confidence. Hate and targeted harassment remain prevalent. Research suggests almost one in four LGBTQ+ people in Wales experience a hate crime in each year, yet only around 12 per cent report it to the police.  

“Providing specialist, trauma-informed support not only helps victims cope and recover, but also prevents re-victimisation and escalation into more serious harm. By equipping young people with protective strategies, giving them the confidence to report crimes, and building stronger links with police services, this project addresses root causes and reduces future risk.”

You can access support by visiting www.umbrellacymru.co.uk