Community Foundation North East is working with Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, on a new £100,000 Commissioner’s Community Fund. The aim is to help communities feel safer, stronger and more connected.
The fund supports the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan for Northumbria. It offers grants to grassroots groups that work with vulnerable people, create positive activities for young people, and help to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour. Some of the money comes from funds recovered by police under the Proceeds of Crime Act. This means money taken from criminal activity is returned to the communities it once affected.
Susan Dungworth said the fund gives local people a chance to shape safer neighbourhoods. She explained that it reflects her priorities to prevent crime, tackle anti-social behaviour and build confidence in policing. She also highlighted that investing in community-led ideas shows that crime does not pay and that local people have the power to make lasting change.
Adam Lopardo, Chief Funding and Partnership Officer at Community Foundation North East, welcomed the partnership. He noted that their Vital Signs Justice report shows the difference that community projects can make and said the Foundation is keen to see new ideas come forward.
There are two levels of funding available. Small grants of up to £1,000 can support one-off or community events. Larger grants, from £1,001 to £5,000, can support projects lasting up to a year. Groups can apply for costs such as staff time, equipment, venue hire, accessibility needs, or transport.
The fund is open for applications now. It will close at midday on Wednesday, 7 January 2026.
Find out more or apply via Community Foundation