Crime pays - for community groups in West Berkshire

West Berkshire community groups are being invited to apply for crime prevention cash.

One hundred thousand pounds is up for grabs - and comes from the proceeds of the sale of items seized from criminals.

The Community Fund is intended to support voluntary and community groups that help to prevent crime and keep communities safe.

Money for the scheme comes from the Police Property Act Fund, which is jointly managed by the Police and Crime Comissioner (PCC) and the Chief Constable.

Organisations from across Thames Valley can apply for either a micro grant (under £1,000), or larger grant (over £5,000).

The grants will be assessed and awarded in the following categories:

• Strong Local Policing (preventing crime & protecting communities)
• Fighting Serious Organised Crime (protecting vulnerable people)
• Fighting Fraud & Cybercrime (fighting modern crimes)
• Improving the Criminal Justice System (reducing re-offending)
• Tackling illegal encampments (reducing the impact of encampments)

Matthew Barber, Thames Valley PCC, said: “I’m pleased to be launching this year’s Community Fund, offering support to both community and voluntary organisations across Thames Valley to support my policing priorities.

“A key part of my Police and Criminal Justice Plan is to enable organisations across Thames Valley to collaborate and tackle issues facing our communities. From fighting modern crimes, including cybercrime and fraud, to protecting vulnerable people and reducing reoffending.”

Chief Constable John Campbell, said: “Our officers and staff work hard to get justice for victims. For certain types of investigations this can include seizing assets from those who seek to make a living from crime. These funds can then be used to fund a variety of worthy work across the Thames Valley.

“Today’s launch of the Community Fund offers funding to those voluntary and community groups across the Thames Valley who run projects that contribute to preventing crime, protecting our communities and fighting modern crimes.

“Those organisations who are reducing offending by focusing on prevention and early intervention are a key priority in this round, as well as those organisations who work with the most vulnerable. We are particularly keen to receive bids that support our priority areas.”

The closing date for this round of applications is on Sunday, October 3 and applications will be considered jointly by the PCC and the Chief Constable.

Successful recipients will be invited to attend a presentation ceremony, due to be held in November 2021.