DORSET is on track to become the safest county in the country as a new police charity is launched.

The Safer Dorset Foundation has this week been launched by Police and Crime Commissioner, Martyn Underhill and Deputy Chief Constable, James Vaughan.

The charity aims to make the county the safest in the country by 2021 by supporting crime prevention and promoting a safer and quality of life for residents.

PCC Martyn Underhill, said: “I am excited to launch the Safer Dorset Foundation and I’m looking forward to seeing it grow.

"The charity will work alongside the police to help prevent crime and protect people who have been affected by crime.

"There are some very exciting fundraising ideas in the pipeline and I look forward to seeing the charity benefit the people of Dorset."

Initial funds will be used to for projects that help children achieve and protect vulnerable people from abuse and fraud.

While the chairty will run independently from the Dorset PCC and Dorset Police, they will collaborate on projects and work alongside one another to improve services.

Martyn Underhill added: “I am confident the people of Dorset will be supportive of the foundation, and I am committing to match fund the first £10,000 donations.

"This money will not come from the policing budget but will be funded through specialist grants from Government."

The charity is one of eight pledges Mr Underhill committed to achieving during his first 100 days in office since he was re-elected as PCC in May.

James Vaughan, Dorset Police Deputy Chief Constable and trustee, said: “While the Safer Dorset Foundation is an independent charity, I am proud to support it personally as a trustee and, more widely, its success will help Dorset Police keep people safe and build stronger communities.

"Because of these mutual benefits, the Force is supporting the charity through the use of buildings and IT infrastructure, although this will not be at a direct cost or the expense of frontline officer’s time."

Trustees are keen to welcome new individuals and corporates to the board, so if you specialise in PR, accounting or charity law please get in touch with Fiona Murray on charity@dorset.pnn.police.uk.