A community project in South London has received £8,000 of funding from an independent co-operative which is supporting community organisations to tackle the causes of crime.
Southern Co-op, which has retail and coffee branches across London, has chosen 18 community projects to receive the Safer Neighbourhood Funding.
Whilst the majority of the projects are tackling the causes of crime, one stood out for a different reason – supporting those who had been a victim of crime.
TRIBE Freedom Foundation works to equip financial institutions and survivor support organisations with the tools needed to empower survivors of modern slavery so that no survivor is barred from essential banking services or re-traumatised as a result of their experiences.
Laragh O’Malley, Head of Impact and Partnerships at TRIBE Freedom Foundation, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received funding from Southern Co-op to support the development of the TRIBE Survivor Financial Empowerment Programme – a digital learning platform (online microsite) and industry outreach programme designed to address the gap in financial provisions for survivors of modern slavery as they re-integrate into society.
“Now more than ever, survivors need our support. The number of survivors being rescued and identified in the UK is growing every year. In 2021, a total of 12,727 potential victims of modern slavery were referred to the UK mechanism for identifying and supporting potential victims of modern slavery, representing a 20% increase compared to 2020 and this is just the tip of the iceberg.
“It is estimated that over 100,000 people are living in slavery across the UK. During their recovery, almost all survivors will require support to rebuild their financial stability, including opening a new bank account and managing their finances which are two key steps to help reclaim their freedom and independence.
“With funding from Southern Co-op, we can continue to drive improvements in provisions for survivors, ensure that banks across the financial industry are taking steps to support survivor financial well-being and ultimately help empower greater numbers of survivors to thrive.”
Almost 80% of TRIBE Freedom Foundation’s annual income comes from community fundraising and events. To find out more, visit: https://www.instagram.com/tribefreedomfoundation.
Gemma Lacey, Director Sustainability & Communications at Southern Co-op, said: “We have tried our best to support as many community projects as possible in this latest round of funding – a total of 18 across the south – and are pleased to see such a passionate group of organisations all doing their best to help people in need.”
The Safer Neighbourhood Fund has been co-ordinated with the help of Neighbourly, a giving platform that helps businesses make a positive impact in their communities by donating volunteer time, money, and surplus products.
