By KLTV Newsdesk – 

£350,000 funding pot opens to support grassroots projects tackling crime, supporting victims and improving wellbeing

Community groups and organisations across West Yorkshire are being invited to apply for a share of £350,000 through the latest round of the Mayor’s Safer Communities Fund.

The scheme, led by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin, reinvests money seized from criminals into local projects working to make neighbourhoods safer, stronger and more resilient.

Applications for the latest funding round are now open, with grants available to support a wide range of initiatives, including youth engagement through sport and the arts, support for survivors of abuse, programmes to reduce reoffending and projects that improve community wellbeing.

Since its launch, the Mayor’s Safer Communities Fund and the People’s Fund have awarded £4.9 million to 505 projects across the region.

Supporting those making a difference

Mayor Tracy Brabin said the funding demonstrates a commitment to investing in communities and preventing crime at its roots.

“I have promised to make West Yorkshire safer and fairer, and we are backing the people working on the ground to make that happen.

“By taking money from criminals and putting it straight into projects that prevent crime, we’re supporting victims and providing opportunities to those who need them most.

“From helping young people to thrive to strengthening community wellbeing, we’re delivering real change and creating safer places across West Yorkshire”

Millions recovered from crime returned to communities

The fund is supported by money recovered through the Proceeds of Crime Act, with assets confiscated from offenders redirected into projects that benefit local people.

West Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Sir John Robins QPM DL welcomed the launch of the latest grant round and highlighted the impact of the scheme.

“Our Economic Crime Unit works tirelessly to pursue those involved in serious and organised crime and to confiscate their illegally obtained assets.

“The Mayor’s Safer Communities Fund has invested millions of pounds of recovered criminal cash into local groups, and we welcome the launch of this latest grant round.

“These grants enable communities and partners to tackle the issues that matter most to them and by working together, we can build safer neighbourhoods and reduce crime.

“I would encourage groups to make the most of this opportunity and support making a real difference to the communities of West Yorkshire.”

Previous projects making an impact

A number of projects across West Yorkshire have already benefited from funding through the scheme.

In Bradford, The Anah Project supports women and girls fleeing abuse by providing safe spaces, practical support and crisis intervention.

Project Colt’s ‘Inspire and Achieve’ programme in Calderdale has helped vulnerable adults, including former offenders, gain employment and build healthier, more sustainable lives.

In Kirklees, Penguin Acting and Theatre Productions delivers the ‘Girls Matter’ project, providing a safe space for girls vulnerable to exploitation to build resilience, develop healthy relationships and form new friendships.

Meanwhile, the Amal Eritrean Community in Leeds runs its Knife-Free Futures programme, using football to engage young people, raise awareness of knife crime and exploitation, and connect participants with trusted mentors.

Life Experience in Wakefield delivers its Pathways project, educating young people about the dangers of county lines activity and criminal exploitation while helping them access positive opportunities and safer futures.

How to apply

Applications for the latest round of funding close at midday on 3 July, with successful projects due to be announced in October.

Previous recipients of the People’s Fund are also eligible to apply.

Further information about the Mayor’s Safer Communities Fund, including details of how to apply, is available on the scheme’s website.