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The Community Fund is now OPEN. 

Applications for this round of funding must be received by the OPFCC by 5:00pm on Thursday 30th April 2026.

This fund provides grants of up to £2,500 to support local projects that help make communities across Cumbria safer and stronger. Funding comes from property that cannot be returned and has been legally sold by the police, along with contributions from the Commissioner’s budget.

Your project must support at least one of the priorities in the Police, Fire & Crime Plan:

  • Tackling anti-social behaviour
  • Tackling domestic abuse, sexual violence or violence against women and girls
  • Disrupting or preventing drug supply or use
  • Helping people stay safe online
  • Tackling rural crime
  • Addressing anti-social or dangerous driving
  • Supporting mental health
  • Preventing neighbourhood crime

You are not eligible to apply if you have received Community Fund or Property Fund support within the past 12 months.

Before You Apply

Please read the Guidance Notes before applying to make sure your organisation and project meet the eligibility criteria.  The Guidance Notes will also help you to complete your application correctly.

Before submitting an application, you must speak to a Police Officer, PCSO, police staff member or a Fire Officer who will act as a sponsor for your project. They will:

  • Discuss your idea, ensuring it complies with the requested funding criteria.
  • Assist you with completing the application form to develop a strong application.
  • Submit the application on your behalf
  • Stay engaged with your group to maximise community benefit


How to Apply

To apply, download the Application Form.

Work with your sponsor to complete the application form.

Ensure that all the requested documents are provided.

Your application must be signed by the person applying for funding - typed signatures are not accepted.

Your sponsor will submit your application on your behalf.

Completed applications will be reviewed by your local Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector and then assessed by a Decision Making Panel made up of the PFCC, OPFCC staff, Police Inspectors and Fire Station Managers who will judge your application against the funding criteria and benefits that can be realized, taking into account the funding they have available to award. You will be notified of the decision outcome shortly after the Panel meets.

Important Dates

Applications must be received by the OPFCC by:
5:00pm – Thursday 30th April 2026

If Your Application Is Successful

You will be required to:

  • Complete a New Supplier form
  • Sign a Grant Agreement
  • Complete an online Engagement Form

Funding will be paid into your organisation’s bank account once all documents are received. Funding must be spent within 12 months, unless otherwise agreed.
You must keep all receipts and invoices.

If any changes to your project become necessary, you must contact the OPFCC before making them.

Promoting Your Project

If you receive funding, you must:

  • Promote your project locally
  • Work with the OPFCC Media Team
  • Display the PFCC logo where appropriate
  • Be willing to host a visit from the Commissioner

Evaluation

Within six months of receiving funding, you must complete a short Evaluation Form showing:

  • What your project achieved
  • The impact of the funding
  • Supporting evidence (feedback, photos, case studies)
  • Copies of all receipts

Any unspent or misused funds may be reclaimed.

If you would like to discuss the fund or your project idea, please speak to your local Police or Fire team or contact the OPFCC.