At least £5.6 Million will be spent on aiding the recovery of Southport, with the majority of funds being used to support schools around the town, those impacted by both events, local communities and businesses directly affected and the wider Southport economy.
The funding represents a significant step in addressing the emotional, social, and economic impacts of both the July 29th and July 30th tragedies, while also planning for a stronger future for Southport.
Leaders in Sefton have welcomed the financial support for Southport, with the Government pledging monetary aid as part of its Community Recovery Fund to support the town.
The offer of support builds on the strong relationship between the council and central government, who have been steadfast in their support for the local community following the tragic events in July.
Outlining the offer, the government thanked everyone in the borough for their continued work and dedication and praised the countless examples of the community coming together to support each other.
Focussing heavily on all efforts that prioritise children, families, and businesses around Southport, it will allow for the creation and extension of programs that address both immediate and long-term needs including mental health support, community rebuilding, and economic revitalization.
Residents, business owners, community groups and volunteers are being encouraged to take advantage of and participate in initiatives and resources that will help them and the town.
The funding is broken down as follows:
• £1,884,700 to support Southport schools and education provisions affected by the tragic events. This includes increased support for complex emotional needs and training for school staff to help pupils who may need or want additional support.
• £790,000 allocated for community cohesion initiatives. This will focus on programs to educate on equality, diversity, and inclusion, including work with minority ethnic communities and addressing extremist ideologies. Funding will also be used for enhanced youth services in Southport, with activities to promote social cohesion and combat racism and extremism. Grants from this funding pot will be available for community events to strengthen local bonds and improve community spirit.
• £665,000 continues to provide comprehensive psychological support to victims, families, and the wider community. This includes expanded mental health services to meet both short and long term psychological needs, enhanced occupational health support and a broader health and wellbeing offer.
• £1,900,000 for the economy of Southport. This ranges from grants which have already been given to businesses in the Hart Street and St Lukes Road area, with the remainder going towards enhancing existing destination events and supporting the development of new destination events, and marketing campaigns that will attract visitors to Southport, ultimately boosting footfall and spending. It will also contribute to long-term regeneration and new development opportunities.
• £420,000 has been allocated to the Southport Recovery Team within Sefton Council to coordinate and oversee all recovery efforts efficiently. This involves a fixed-term team of specialists who manage the recovery efforts and ensure continued collaboration among partners.
Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said: “We have said from the outset that we will do whatever it takes during this recovery process and that everything we do will have the families of Alice, Bebe and Elsie Dot at the heart of it.
“We’ve been really appreciative of the support from the government and this funding will go towards the immediate priorities as we continue to come to terms with what has happened.
“We are continuing to listen to the community and are learning more all of the time to understand what support is needed where and this will continue to be flexible to the needs of our residents and businesses.”
Southport’s MP Patrick Hurley added: “The Southport community has faced tough times in the past few months.
“It’s important for us to stick together and support each other and the families affected by the recent attack. We must also continue to provide assistance to the families of Alice, Bebe, and Elsie Dot.
“I’m glad to see that the Prime Minister is committed to helping Southport. Following the attack in July, he promised to collaborate with me and the council to aid in Southport’s recovery. This announcement proves that he is true to his word and highlights the effectiveness of working together across all levels of government.”
The news was also welcomed by the City Region Mayor who continues to offer his support for the community.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the government for stepping up to provide this vital support for Southport. This funding will make a real difference to the lives of those affected by the tragic events, helping families access the psychological support they need and enabling the community to begin healing.
“It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we work together, and I’m proud of the resilience and strength Southport has shown throughout these difficult few weeks. With this support, we can begin to recover and move forward.”
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