Commissioner Adam Simmonds has revealed he is to begin distributing grants in Northamptonshire in a bid to cut crime.
The Police and Crime Commissioner today announced the new grants scheme, which will see him allocate pots of cash, ranging from £500 to £5,000.
The money comes from ill-gotten gains seized from criminals by Northamptonshire Police through the Proceeds of Crime Act.
The scheme will focus on different themes each year.
Mr Simmonds said his commission is seeking applications this year from across the county from “communities and residents who are working to combat crime in their neighbourhoods or can offer support and assistance to those whose lives have been blighted by crime”.
The grants are available for capital projects and must be spent by the end of March 2014.
He said: “Tackling crime and putting victims at the heart of the criminal justice system are two of my key priorities.
“This scheme will help to unlock much of the good work that is already being undertaken across Northamptonshire, and will ensure this work can be expanded.
“All too often, victims across our county feel isolated and have no one to turn to help. Local groups and organisations are best placed to help these people, and with a little support, they can make a big difference.”
Mr Simmonds said his commission will assess the applications and will announce the successful ones in October.
Application forms can be requested by writing to Stuart McCartney, Office of the Northamptonshire Police and Crime Commissioner, West Wing, Police HQ, Wootton Hall, Northampton, NN4 0JQ. Tel Northampton 888113, Commissioner@northantspcc.pnn.police.uk.
Alternatively, forms can be downloaded from the Northamptonshire Police and Crime Commissioner’s website www.northantspcc.org.uk