Victim Surcharge Fund reopens for applications

Victims of crime will continue to receive support provided by payments from a fund that takes money from offenders.

The Victim Surcharge Fund has reopened for applications, with £165,000 available in this round to victims of crime.

Last year £157,000 was made available to victims of crime from the Victim Surcharge Fund.

Victim Support Scotland is a previous recipient of the funding which we have used to contribute towards our own Victims’ Fund.

The Victims’ Fund is made directly available to people affected by crime across Scotland, who are in urgent need of financial help as a result of what they have experienced. This support can include help with household repairs following a crime, or food, utility and clothing expenses for those who may be escaping domestic abuse.

For some this has been life-changing and lifesaving.

Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland, Kate Wallace said:

“For many people that have come through crime, having access to funds when they need it most can be life changing. Covering costs for emergency accommodation, food and clothing are just some of the ways that funding can be used. The Victim Surcharge Fund has enabled us to reach even more victims who are facing financial adversity through no fault of their own.”

Background:

From November 2019 anyone who has committed a crime that results in a court fine is charged an additional penalty – the victim’s surcharge.

Victims organisations interested in applying to the Fund can request an application form by emailing VictimSurchargefund@gov.scot and should apply by the 14 January 2022 deadline.

To find out more, click here.