A Government Minister's applauded Lancashire’s Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner Candidate who has pledged to protect the most vulnerable in our society.

As part of his six-point plan for Lancashire, Andy Pratt said he would ensure that everyone who has been a victim of abuse, whatever shape it takes, is protected, with the police working with agencies across the county.

He said: “I want to ensure that the most vulnerable are protected. In particular the people who suffer from violence in the home, most are women but also the elderly and men. Some fantastic work is going on in the county, but we can do even more when all the agencies collaborate and work together.

“Young people and in particular those who are subject to sexual exploitation are extremely vulnerable. I pioneered work in this area in the past and I want to see it developed further.”

Andy’s pledge comes after the government recently announced that it is to increase the committed funding to £80 million to protect women and girls from violence, as part of a new violence against women and girls (VAWG) strategy, which is due to be set up next year.

The funding will promote projects which are leading the way in stopping violence before it happens, preventing abusive behaviour from becoming entrenched, and establishing the best ways to help victims and their families.

Minister for Preventing Abuse, Exploitation and Crime Karen Bradley said: “I am delighted to hear that Andy has pledged to ensure the most vulnerable will be protected as part of his six-point plan and is well qualified to ensure Lancashire Constabulary is leading the way on this with his background working for the force.

“The Government is serious about stopping violence against women and girls and has made it a priority. No one should live in fear of these crimes.

“That is why we have increased funding to £80 million for the next 4 years. We are determined to stop women and girls from becoming victims in the first place, which means funding services which will provide support and intervene as early as possible to stop the cycle of abuse.”

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