The funding, which utilises cash seized from criminals, is open to support projects that help prevent crime and make Lancashire safer, with a particular focus on diversionary activity over the summer holiday period, when anti-social behaviour typically increases.

Local organisations, charities, community groups, and Parish and Town Councils can all apply for grants to deliver initiatives that support safer communities.

Priority will be given to projects focused on youth diversion and preventing violence against women and girls (VAWG).

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire, said:

“I’m pleased to be investing money taken from criminals back into the communities they’ve harmed, funding projects that actively support safer streets.

“With the summer holidays approaching, this is a vital opportunity to support diversionary activities that give young people positive opportunities and help prevent anti-social behaviour before it starts.

“Prevention is at the heart of my Police and Crime Plan, and this funding empowers communities to take action on the issues that matter most to them. Working together, we can create a safer Lancashire for everyone.”

Funding is open on a rolling basis and will also be delivered in partnership with Community Safety Partnerships and local MPs.

The scheme builds on the success of last year’s Community Fund, which reinvested £1.12 million of money seized from criminals into Lancashire, supporting projects that engaged more than 66,000 people across the county.

Applications for the first round of funding, which will support projects over the summer period, close on 17 June.

Organisations can find out more and apply via the Commissioner’s website at https://www.lancashire-pcc.gov.uk/grant-funding/