The Safer Communities Grant will support projects that focus on early prevention, tackling the causes of crime, vulnerability, exploitation and anti-social behaviour
A new grant scheme has been launched to support new and existing projects that focus on the early prevention of crime and tackling its root causes, and on vulnerability and exploitation of children and young people.
The Safer Communities Grant will be open to not for profit organisations and schools across Herefordshire, with grants of between £25,000 and £300,000 available over the next two years.
Projects will work to prevent crime at the earliest stage through recognising vulnerability and risks of exploitation, and addressing anti-social behaviour. In line with the county’s joint early help and prevention strategy, the projects will ensure early support services are in place for children, young people and families and help to promote positive emotional health and wellbeing.
The Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion (PCC), West Mercia Police and Herefordshire Council have collaborated to provide the £1million for the grant scheme.
Councillor Ivan Powell, cabinet member for children and young people said: “Herefordshire Council’s support for this scheme demonstrates our continued commitment to prioritise our support for children and families across Herefordshire at the earliest stage possible. Tackling crime and its root causes makes a huge difference to the quality of life and future aspirations for children and young people across the county. When crime and anti-social behaviour is prevented there are significant benefits for both the individuals involved but also for the wider community.’’
Local Policing Commander for Herefordshire, Superintendent Helen Wain, said: “We welcome the Safer Communities Grant and are pleased the additional funding has been secured. We know tackling the root causes of crime and focussing on early prevention will make a significant difference to our local communities across the county.”
PCC John Campion said: "The only way we can tackle some of the deep-rooted issues in the county is by working together. This project is a big step forward as I remain committed to driving down crime and the harm it causes. I am pleased to be making additional funding available to deliver the landmark Safer Communities project, in close partnership with Herefordshire Council and West Mercia Police."
To find out more about the grant scheme, please see the council website https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/scf