Applications for thousands of pounds for community projects that support young people in the local community are now being welcomed.

The ‘Fix the Future’ Community Fund has been created to help support projects and initiatives which will benefit young people and their local community.

Launched by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, the grants are being made available to community groups and organisations for projects and initiatives that reflect the needs of younger people, give them development opportunities, add value to the community and ultimately, make Dorset a safer place to live.

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The projects must meet the funding criteria and have a local focus with applications welcomed from £100 to £5,000. In addition, the fund is particularly aimed at helping those from deprived or isolated areas.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am delighted to introduce a brand-new community fund aimed at helping young people in Dorset. I have seen the great work that awardees of the Op Relentless Fund have done across the county, and I am very much looking forward to seeing what we can do to help the younger generation.

“I want our younger residents to have safe spaces to gather and activities available which help them develop and become resilient adults. I want them to have opportunities to use their spare time constructively and help prevent those who may be at risk from getting involved in crime from doing so.

“So, if you are a charity or local project and you fit the criteria – I would encourage you to bid for funding. Together, we can Fix the Future and make our county safer for everyone.”

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The PCC Grant Scheme is a financial resource provided by the Police & Crime Commissioner to support activities in Dorset that contribute to the delivery of the Police and Crime Plan 2021-2029.

This plan concentrates on six key themes: cut crime and antisocial behaviour, making policing more visible and connected, fight violent crime and high harm, fight rural crime, put victims and communities first, and to make every penny count.

Those looking for more information or to apply should visit https://www.dorset.pcc.police.uk/working-in-partnership/fix-the-future-fund/