Providing Consistent Support for People Affected by Road Collisions
Founded by a former police officer with extensive experience investigating serious and fatal road traffic collisions, the Road Collision Support Network (RCSN) was created to address a significant gap in victim support services.
During his policing career, the founder recognised that individuals affected by road collisions often faced challenges accessing the emotional, psychological, practical, financial, and legal support available to them. While many charities and organisations offer valuable assistance, finding the right support at the right time was often difficult. Police officers also face challenges in signposting people to services due to the need to remain impartial and avoid favouring one organisation over another.
RCSN was established as a wholly independent signposting service, researching, producing, and regularly updating tailored support packs for people affected by road collisions. Each pack includes both local and national support services and is categorised by injury type, ensuring that accurate, relevant, and up-to-date information is readily available when it is needed most.
How the Grant Was Used
Funding through the West Suffolk Small Business Start Up Grant, funded by West Suffolk Council and delivered by MENTA, enabled RCSN to purchase A5 notepads and pens, which are distributed free of charge through police forces to victims, witnesses, and loved ones affected by road collisions.
These resources provide individuals with a personal journal to help them process their experiences, record important information, and note down questions relating to police investigations or legal processes.
The funding also supported the professional printing of RCSN’s signposting packs, allowing police officers to provide physical copies directly to those who may benefit from them, alongside the digital versions already available.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the biggest challenges facing RCSN was the cost of producing printed materials.
High-quality stationery and professionally printed resources can be expensive, particularly for a growing organisation committed to providing support free of charge. The West Suffolk Small Business Start Up Grant made it possible to purchase these valuable resources and ensure they could reach the people who need them most.
The Difference the Funding Has Made
The grant not only enabled the production of essential support materials but also freed up funding that could be invested elsewhere in the organisation.
As a result, RCSN was able to seek professional support to improve its website, making it more accessible and easier to navigate. This has helped ensure that individuals seeking support can find the information and services they need more quickly and easily.
Impact So Far
The response from police forces working with RCSN has been overwhelmingly positive.
Feedback has highlighted the need for a consistent and impartial source of support for those affected by road collisions, as well as a trusted resource that police and affiliated organisations can confidently signpost people towards.
By helping fund printed resources and support materials, the West Suffolk Small Business Start Up Grant has played an important role in strengthening and expanding this consistent support provision, enabling RCSN to reach more people with practical and emotional support when they need it most.
Advice for Future Applicants
When asked what they would say to others considering applying for a grant, the founder shared:
“Definitely give it strong consideration. There will no doubt be ideas, products, or initiatives that may seem out of reach due to time or cost implications. The grant can seriously help in making those things within reach.”
Client Testimonial
“The application was straightforward, and MENTA were on hand to guide me through the process at every step.”
Empowering Businesses Since 1984. Through delivering the West Suffolk Small Business Start Up Grant on behalf of West Suffolk Council, MENTA is proud to support organisations like the Road Collision Support Network to grow, expand their impact, and provide valuable services that strengthen communities across West Suffolk.
