COMMUNITY projects that could prevent crime could receive up to £5,000.

Cheshire police and crime commissioner David Keane is offering £100,000 this year for projects that could make a real difference in their village, town or city.

The first £25,000 is up for grabs between now and May 31 when the first round of applications close.

Mr Keane said: “My Safer Communities Fund has already benefited a vast array of projects that work tirelessly to make their communities safer places to live.

“Last year, I was able to fund 15 projects which will make a real difference and will help to reduce crime and promote safety messages to their communities.

“The fund is about empowering people. Local people understand their area better than anyone else and can make significant contributions to build safer, more secure communities on behalf of the public.”

This year’s fund is being launched as the commissioner rolls out his plans to provide a named PCSO for every community in Cheshire.

“Local PCSOs will soon have a much bigger presence in the areas they serve and will have more time to work closely with local residents to tackle issues that affect their community," added Mr Keane.

“I want to hear from organisations, charities, community and volunteering groups and my expectation is that in developing bids organisations will work with their local PCSOs and officers to ensure projects tackle crime prevention or community safety issues in their area.

“This will enable our police service to be better connected with the community they serve in order to tackle complex and emerging crimes at their root cause.”

Applications will be considered from groups whose work is Cheshire based and supports crime prevention or reduction or meets one of the objectives in the commissioner’s police and crime plan.

This could include projects that support victims, protect vulnerable people, tackle anti-social behaviour or drug issues, improve road safety or promote a safe night time economy.

Each individual project is entitled to bid for up to £5,000 but there is no minimum funding level, no project is too small.

The first round of the fund closes at 5pm on Thursday, May 31. Successful applicants will be notified by the end of June.

To apply for the fund or for more information visit cheshire-pcc.gov.uk/what-im-doing/safer-communities-fund.