Jeff Smith is calling on local community organisations in south Manchester to apply for their share of a new £200,000 pot for projects that help to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

The Active Citizens’ Fund, launched earlier this week by Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner (GMPCC) Tony Lloyd, aims to give grants to organisations that are focused on building resilient communities that are less vulnerable to crime in the future.

Interested organisations can apply for up to £5,000 to be used to reduce demand on police forces and foster thriving communities.  Successful applicants will then be asked to present their ideas to a panel in October before awards are made at the end of the year. Over the next two months, the Office of the GMPCC will hold a number of advice sessions to help those organisations interested in applying (booking required).

Jeff said: “I’m pleased to be supporting this new initiative to encourage grassroots organisations to take on a bigger role in reducing anti-social behaviour.

Building strong and resilient communities is the most sustainable way to reduce crime in the long-term and that requires the police and community groups working closely together through schemes just like this.”

You can find more information on how to apply, and the details of the advice sessions here.  These advice sessions have limited space and spaces must be reserved.

The deadline for applications to the scheme is Thursday 22^nd September.