MORE than £100,000 of funding is being made available for organisations to help reduce crime. 

A new grant round has today been opened in the Police Property Act fund, for groups which aim to lower reoffending rates and improve the local response to serious organised crime and terrorism. 

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for the Thames Valley, Anthony Stansfeld, and the Chief Constable, John Campbell, announced the latest funding, which is created from money recovered by the police from the sale of items that cannot be returned to identified owners, including seizures from criminals.

Oxford Mail: Police and crime commissioner Anthony Stansfeld (left) with John Campbell, the chief constablePolice and crime commissioner Anthony Stansfeld (left) with John Campbell, the chief constable

Last year, £198,650 was distributed to 52 different organisations in addressing Police and Crime Plan priorities.

The PCC and Chief Constable expect to allocate around £140,000 in this round.

Applications are now invited from local voluntary and community groups.

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Some examples of projects that may be considered include those that aim to tackle:

  • Substance abuse
  • Gangs and knife crime
  • Offender management
  • Domestic violence perpetrators
  • Public awareness of serious organised crime
  • Prevent violent extremism
  • Dare to Share culture across agencies who deal with vulnerable young people and adults.
  • Exploitation of vulnerable people

All applications will be required to submit clear evidence of how their project or activity will contribute towards achieving the key aim indicated.

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The closing date is 9am Thursday, June 20. Applications will be considered jointly by the PCC and Chief Constable.

PCC Anthony Stansfeld said:  “I am pleased to be launching another round of the Police Property Act Fund. Every year, I am delighted to see the good work that is being carried out by the voluntary and community sector and the difference they make. 

“Working in partnership with both statutory and voluntary organisations is crucial when addressing issues such as re-offending and serious organised crime.  I know there are many voluntary organisations working within the community making a valuable contribution in tackling these issues at a local level and I look forward to seeing the applications”.

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Chief Constable John Campbell added: “Our officers and staff are working hard to prevent crime and disorder, safeguard the vulnerable and when crime occurs bring offenders to justice. This includes seizing assets from those who seek to make a living from crime.

“Today we are launching the Police Property Act fund which allocates funding to voluntary and community groups across the Thames Valley who run projects that contribute to reducing serious and organised crime and reoffending.  I look forward to seeing the positive impact that this funding can have on our communities.”

More information and the application form can be found at:

https://www.thamesvalley-pcc.gov.uk/get-involved/police-property-act-fund/

Successful recipients will be invited to attend an award ceremony held on the afternoon of Friday, September 20, at Sulhamstead.