Police and Crime Commissioner’s grants reopen

Community groups and charities across Wiltshire and Swindon are being encouraged to apply for funding to help tackle crime, support victims and build safer communities.

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Wiltshire is working with Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation to distribute grants to local organisations delivering projects that make a positive difference in their communities.

The Police and Crime Commissioner’s Community Action Fund awards grants of up to £5,000 to support projects that contribute to the priorities set out in the Wiltshire and Swindon Police and Crime Plan, including reducing violence and serious harm, tackling community concerns and improving support for victims of crime.

Philip Wilkinson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon said: "The Community Action Fund is a vital way of supporting the outstanding work carried out by local organisations every day. These groups are often best placed to understand the challenges facing their communities and to deliver practical, lasting solutions.

"By investing in projects that prevent crime, support victims and address the root causes of offending, we are helping to build safer communities across Wiltshire and Swindon. I would strongly encourage eligible organisations to apply and be part of this important work."

Previous grants have supported a wide range of initiatives across Wiltshire and Swindon. These include specialist training for Independent Sexual Violence Advisers to strengthen support for victims of sexual assault and abuse, and mentoring programmes that help young people build confidence and self-esteem while also learning new skills and managing risks.

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation have developed a strong and longstanding relationship through their shared commitment to supporting local people and building stronger, fairer communities.

Alongside the Fund, the OPCC and the Foundation have recently worked together through the Wiltshire and Swindon Youth Partnership to strengthen youth provision across the county.

Fiona Oliver, Joint Chief Executive of Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation, said: "We are delighted to be working once again with both the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner to support organisations that are helping to build safer, stronger communities across Wiltshire and Swindon.

"I would like to thank The Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson and his office for their continued commitment to supporting local charities and community groups. Their support enables grassroots organisations to respond to local challenges, support vulnerable people and deliver projects that make a real difference in communities across our county.”

Applications are open to constituted voluntary and community organisations, registered charities and not-for-profit companies working within Wiltshire and Swindon.

The deadline for applications is 17 August, with funding decisions expected in late September or early October.

For more information, including full eligibility criteria and details on how to apply, visit www.wscf.org.uk.