COMMUNITY groups which want to improve the safety of West Midlands streets can bid for grants from a £1million police fund.
Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) David Jamieson is urging groups and organisations to apply to his Active Citizens Fund.
It is made up from money seized from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act and is awarded to groups who wish to invest in community projects.
With eight months left to run until the end of the financial year there is still £1,064,144 in this year’s fund.
The PCC says he is keen to receive lots of applications so the money can used to improve the lives of people living in the region.
He says the aim is to help people in the region reduce crime, with local policing teams recommending projects for approval.
In the past, money has been used to fund the Coventry Street Pastor project which keeps people safe while on nights out.
It has also been used for cleaning up an area to reduce anti-social behaviour and paying for a boxing club which works with disadvantaged young people.
It also provided funds to the highly successful Shirley Street Watch scheme.
Mr Jamieson said: “The Active Citizens Fund is a vital source of funding for local people who want to make their area safer.
“Every year we fund a huge number of projects with people bidding for anything from a few hundred to a few thousand pounds.
“If you think your area could do with vital investment, all taken from the pockets of criminals, then don’t hesitate to submit an application form.”
Organisations wishing to apply are urged to contact local police officers prior to completing an application form.
They will advise on the process, provide application forms and guide groups through the process and assess whether they are likely to be successful.
