WEST Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner has launched the latest round of the Safer Communities Fund.

Now in its 12th round, the fund is financed with money recovered from criminals by West Yorkshire Police and prosecutors under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA).

Voluntary, community groups, charities and partners are able to apply for grants of up to £5,000.

Nearly £2 million has been given to more than 430 deserving projects so far since the fund launched in 2014.

The latest round opens at noon on Monday, September 11 to groups with projects which can demonstrate how they are delivering on the priorities in the Police and Crime Plan.

Mark Burns-Williamson, West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “The Safer Communities Fund is now entering its 12th round and is going from strength to strength.

“I would encourage groups to apply for funding. I have seen at first-hand how even small amounts of money can make a real difference. Year on year we are over-subscribed, which demonstrates the passion in our communities to work with me to make a difference.

“Anyone who feels the work they are doing in their community meets the priorities in the Police and Crime Plan should apply.

“We all have a responsibility to work together to keep West Yorkshire safe and feeling safe and local groups and organisations play a crucial role in addressing these issues.

“Another big thank you to our police service and prosecutors for helping to recover this money, ensuring that crime doesn’t pay here in West Yorkshire and enabling the fund to make such a difference across the county.”

Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police, Dee Collins, added: “The Safer Communities Fund is an extremely beneficial initiative which gives money back to communities who have been harmed by criminals.

“By reinvesting seized criminal assets, we can support worthwhile organisations and projects that make a real difference in West Yorkshire.”

The fund closes for applications on Friday, October 6, at 12pm.

Visit westyorkshire-pcc.gov.uk/safer-communities-fund or call 01924 294000 for more information.

Young people are also being invited to join the Youth Advisory Group (YAG). Now in its 4th year, the group is made up youngsters aged between 13 and 21 who meet throughout West Yorkshire to give their views and comments to steer decisions, policy and engagement.

Members are not required to attend every meeting and can also send ideas and feedback to the PCC through a range of mediums including by email, telephone and social media. See westyorkshire-pcc.gov.uk/get-involved/youth-advisory-group