Bradford groups could benefit from seized criminal cash

A new round of grants has been launched as part of the West Yorkshire mayor's Safer Communities Fund.

Half a million pounds is up for grabs in the latest distribution of funds, with individual grants of up to £10,000 available.

Since 2021, the Safer Communities Fund has benefited 289 projects – with over £2.4m given away.

Groups are being urged to apply now for a slice of the new pot.

For the first time, the fund will also be open to projects delivering the Build element of Clear, Hold Build (CHB). CHB is a framework developed by the Home Office to tackle serious and organised crime.    

Organisations in the pilot area of BD3 are encouraged to apply.

Mayor Tracy Brabin is particularly encouraging applications from organisations working to tackle priorities in the region’s Police and Crime Plan – which include supporting victims and witnesses and improving criminal justice outcomes, keeping people safe and building resilience, developing thriving communities and responding to multiple and complex needs.

Mayor Brabin said: "In West Yorkshire we’re using cash seized from criminals to help make our neighbourhoods safer, and now we have half a million pounds to invest back into organisations committed to making a positive change in their communities.

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin and Alison Lowe, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime (Image: submitted)

"If you have an idea for a project, please apply, and help us build a safer, fairer, more inclusive region for everybody."

The Safer Communities Fund redistributes money seized by police and prosecutors through the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Successful applicants in the last round of grants included award-winning Keighley drug and alcohol charity Project 6.

It was granted £7,021, to be used to increase engagement with its harm reduction services.

A breakfast club would provide people with warm food and a drink and supply thermal items, such as hats and gloves.

And another recipient was PRISM Youth Project, which operates across the Bradford district.

It is using its funding to deliver education sessions to young people on topics including healthy relationships, consent, drugs and peer pressure.

Project managing director, Katie Corfield, said: "Together, we're fostering a safer, informed future."

West Yorkshire Police Chief Constable, John Robins, said it is "heartening" to see the impact funding is having for groups.

He says: "Our police officers and staff work hard to ensure that criminals do not profit from their illegal activities, so it's heartening to see the difference this cash can make to local groups and projects committed to making their communities safer."

The deadline for applications in the latest round of grants is June 13.

Visit the West Yorkshire Combined Authority website for details on how to apply.