Commissioner visits Blackburn project funded by seized criminal cash

The ‘She Connects’ initiative is supporting women and children from minoritised faith communities, offering access to workshops and activities that provide meaningful engagement throughout the summer and beyond.

The activity engages women and children who may otherwise have little else to do during the summer holiday period and is particularly focused on reaching young people whose parents or guardians may be unable to accompany them, ensuring they still have opportunities to participate.

During his visit to a session held at Witton Country Park, the Commissioner observed a range of activities including cycling and skateboarding lessons, cooking sessions, and other hands-on workshops.

Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said:

“It’s fantastic to see the work happening here through the ‘She Connects’ project, which is funded through money taken from criminals and reinvested into our communities.

“The difference it’s making to the lives of those involved is clear. This is just one example of the positive work happening not only in Blackburn but across Lancashire. My Community Fund is all about making our neighbourhoods safer and making people feel safer, with crime prevention at the heart of everything we do.

“We all want to live in safer, more confident communities. By supporting initiatives like this, we’re easing pressure on policing and delivering real value for money—helping to prevent crime and ensure justice is served.”

SAS Rights Director Saima Afzal MBE said:

“She Connects is more than a project, it’s a lifeline for minoritised women, girls, and children. With heartfelt thanks to the Police and Crime Commissioner, we’re able to merge resources from Cycling UK and BwD Health and Wellbeing to offer vibrant workshops for all ages, alongside culturally sensitive counselling support and health check-ins.

“The Commissioner’s funding has been crucial in helping us bring in qualified instructors, enhance our safety processes, and recruit volunteers, making our spaces safe, inclusive, and full of energy. For grassroots groups like ours, this kind of support isn’t just helpful, it’s transformative.”