Merseyside Police’s Operation Payback initiative continues to make a meaningful impact across the region by reinvesting money seized from criminals back into the community.
This month, the spotlight is on Lakeside Church in Southport, which offers a wide range of activities for people of all ages, including family support, community groups, and outreach work. Its ethos centres on helping people navigate life’s challenges, offering connection, encouragement, and practical help.
Thanks to funds recovered under the Proceeds of Crime Act, the church has received a donation of over £8,000 to directly support the church’s Free Clothes Store, a vital community charity project providing essential clothing and personal items to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship.
The Free Clothes Store is one of the church’s most impactful projects and provides:
- Free clothing for adults and children
- Coats, shoes, and seasonal essentials
- Toiletries and hygiene products
- A safe, dignified, and non‑judgemental space for anyone in need
The store also supplies clothing bundles to mental health facilities and the Probation Service and even provides prom dresses and tuxedos for young people who may otherwise struggle to access formalwear.
Detective Sergeant Paul Doran, one of the officers involved in Operation Payback, said:
“Lakeside Church is a lifeline for so many people in Southport. Their Free Clothes Store and wider community support offer dignity, hope, and practical help when it’s needed most.
“We’re proud that Operation Payback can contribute to the remarkable work the church does every day to support vulnerable individuals and families.”
Assistant Pastor Georgina Vernon shared her gratitude in a personal message: “I want to personally thank Liverpool Crown Court and Merseyside Police, for this incredibly generous donation to our Church. It will help us amongst other things, to run our Free Clothes Store. This support will make a very real and immediate difference to individuals and families in our community who are facing financial hardship and uncertainty.
“The Free Clothes Store exists to ensure that no one has to go without essential clothing. We provide good quality, free clothing for adults and children, along with shoes, coats, toiletries, underwear and seasonal essentials, all in a safe, welcoming and dignified environment. For many people, this support is not just practical but deeply encouraging, a reminder that they are seen, valued, and not alone.
“The Free Clothes Store is about more than clothes, it’s about restoring hope and showing people that their community cares. Support like this enables us to continue meeting real needs at a critical time.
“We are so grateful that Liverpool Crown Court and Merseyside Police have chosen to stand alongside us in this work. This money will help us extend compassion, restore dignity, and meet people at a point of real need.”
If you know of anyone requiring support, or you wish to refer someone to the Free Clothes Store, you can contact:
Email: clothes@lakesidechurch.uk
Address:
Free Clothes Store
Lakeside Church
Fairway, Southport
PR9 0LA
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