WARRINGTON communities can now apply for a share of £100,000 to make their neighbourhoods safer and stronger, thanks to Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner Dan Price.
The SWAP Fund – Safety, Working Together, Action and Prevention – is designed to back projects that tackle issues communities care about most, from reducing anti-social behaviour to creating safe spaces for young people.
Money for the fund comes from the Proceeds of Crime Act – cash taken directly from criminals operating in Cheshire. Now, it’s being redirected to deliver positive, lasting change for communities.
Community groups, charities, not-for-profit organisations and for the first time, schools who want to run projects that sit outside the curriculum, are all eligible to apply. Grants of up to £5,000 are available. Matched funding is not required – however matching in-kind is encouraged, such as pledging volunteer hours.
Dan Price said: “People in Warrington and across Cheshire know best what will make their neighbourhoods safer and stronger. The SWAP Fund is about putting resources into their hands so they can take action that works locally.
“We’ve seen how previous projects have changed lives, and I’m looking forward to supporting more fantastic ideas that will benefit communities right here in Warrington.”
One of last year’s projects, Warrington Open Door at Christmas (WODAC), shows the difference the PCC’s support can make. The volunteer-run project offers meals, toiletries, friendship and social activities to people experiencing homelessness.
Several individuals attended because transport was provided, and when talking to them it became clear they were incredibly isolated, with WODAC being their only source of human interaction all year. This level of isolation is, sadly, a common experience for many in need.
Volunteers were able to signpost them to additional support services that can help throughout the year.
Louise Addley from WODAC showed appreciation for the PCC funding, saying:
“We genuinely value the PCC’s support and the support from others without which, WODAC wouldn’t be able to run. During the service period we transported over 270 people to and from WODAC which is a record for us and served over 590 hot meals, again a record for us.”
The PCC is inviting funding applications that address at least one of the following priorities:
• Improve community safety
• Reduce offending and reoffending
• Support victims of crime
• Address crime and anti-social behaviour
• Create positive activities for young people
• Promote crime prevention and early intervention
Applications for the SWAP Fund are welcome up to 5pm on 17 October. More details and the application form are available here: wwww.cheshire-pcc.gov.uk
