Community Safety Fund 2015-2016

Small community groups have a significant role to play in increasing public safety and improving quality of life.  The Community Safety Fund recognises this fact and provides much-needed financial support to third sector organisations whose remit is to turn people away from a life of offending and support those who find themselves a victim.

The Commissioner has earmarked £250,000 from his 2015-16 budget to invest into local grassroots schemes which aim to make a difference and help residents to live happier, fear-free lives.

Third sector organisations were invited to apply for individual grants of up to £25,000 for projects which progress work on his seven key priorities. These include protecting, supporting and responding to victims, witnesses and vulnerable people; reducing the impact of drugs and alcohol on crime and anti-social behaviour; reducing the threat from organised crime; prevention, early intervention and reduction in re-offending and spending taxpayers' money wisely.

Last year, 36 local organisations benefited from the Commission's small grants scheme to address challenging issues which have a serious impact on public safety including domestic violence and hate crime.  Local people are ideally placed to respond to the social problems and the Commission is keen to support more organisations which can help him achieve his safety goals.

This year the Commissioner was keen to attract funding applications which will reduce the victimisation of vulnerable people, support communities to reduce anti-social behaviour and enable BME-led initiatives to work with the police to build trust and understanding.

Twenty-two crime-reduction schemes in Nottinghamshire (see below) have been informed that they will be receiving awards totalling nearly £250,000 from his Community Safety Fund - subject to verification that they meet certain conditions by 1st April 2015.

• 2015-16 Community Safety Fund - successful projects