New fund tackling drugs related anti-social behaviour launched

Thanks to the Police and Crime Commissioner of Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly (OPCC) some of the funds collected under the Police Property Act are now available as grant funding and will be managed by Cornwall Community Foundation.

Over £40,000 will be available from The Police Property Act Fund to be distributed between voluntary organisations and charities across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, that are providing diversionary activities from drugs-related anti-social behaviour (ASB).

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly said, “The Police Property Act fund is made up from the proceeds of property sold which has been seized as part of police operations. I am delighted that Cornwall Community Foundation will be distributing this money on my behalf. I have asked that it is used to support our communities in preventing anti-social behaviour stemming from the illegal drugs trade in Cornwall or on the Isles of Scilly. Tackling the use and supply of drugs, and tackling anti-social behaviour, are two of my Police and Crime Plan priorities.

“The work supported by the fund will help prevent and protect communities from the damage they cause. It is great to see that money generated from thwarting criminal activity is being recycled back into our towns and villages to do good.”

A Band of Brothers, based around the areas of West Cornwall, is just one example of a Cornish organisation providing different activities to encourage people to engage with their communities in a positive way. A £5,000 grant from The Commissioners Community Grant Scheme enabled A Band of Brothers to run their Rite of Passage mentoring sessions for thirty ex-offenders potentially at risk of offending again.

Tamas Haydu, CEO of Cornwall Community Foundation said, “Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have an abundance of community organsiations that work very hard to provide support for people away from drug-related activity. This brilliant new fund will enable us to welcome applications from community groups like A Band of Brothers who help to reduce crime in the Duchy.”

Voluntary organisations can apply for a grant of up to £5,000 by accessing the application form, here.

The deadline to apply is the 22nd February 2023.