Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (Commissioner) David Allen is re-opening the Community Fund and is appealing for local organisations, charities and community groups to apply for funding which support projects to help tackle and prevent crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB).
Talking about the Community Fund, Commissioner David Allen said: "Whilst I’m pleased that our county is one of the safest places in the country to live, work and visit, Cumbria is not immune from the scourge of anti-social behaviour and crime.
“We are inviting groups, organisations and charities to apply for up to £2,500 from the Community Fund, to run local initiatives and projects that have a specific focus on reducing issues associated with these concerns.
“Antisocial behaviour can take a terrible toll on individuals, particularly if people feel their community, or their home, is not safe.
“In the last round of funding, I awarded a total of £23,726 supporting a large variety of clubs and groups across the county. The Community Fund grants were given to organisations such as the Brathay Trust, the Scouts, Maryport Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society and a wide range of sports and youth clubs for example.
“The Community Fund is aimed at projects which can provide early intervention opportunities for young people that will reduce or deter them from taking risks, and also awareness raising programmes in local communities around the impact of anti-social behaviour.
“Whenever I meet with people around the county, to listen to their views on crime and local policing, they repeatedly raise anti-social behaviour as a key area that worries them the most.
“As Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner, my role is to be the voice of residents within Cumbria. I will hold the Police to account on behalf of the views and issues raised by the public and create as many opportunities as possible to tackle crime and ASB.
“It is through a local approach and by working together, with the community, local organisations and the Police, that we can ensure issues which effect residents the most, are dealt with.
“If any member of the public has a concern about crime in their area, or around the Constabulary or Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, please raise it with me at commissioner@cumbria-pcc.gov.uk or call 01768 217734.”
Community Fund documents can be found on the PFCC website - Community Fund - Cumbria PFCC
Applications to the Community Fund will closes on 31st January 2025 at 5pm.
If you wish to report to the police, you can do so online at Report a crime | Cumbria Police. You can also phone on 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.