Cash from seized and unclaimed property to be put back into communities

Proceeds from the sale of seized and unclaimed property that cannot be returned to its owner is being turned into grants for local groups under a new scheme launched by Hertfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner.

Community groups and charities can apply for up to £2,500 from the new Community Cashback Fund, which will take money recovered through seized and unclaimed property that cannot be returned to its owner and use it to support projects that make Hertfordshire’s communities safer.

The idea from Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards is simple: take money associated with crime and use it to do some good in the communities that crime harms.

At least 25 local projects are expected to benefit from the first round of funding, with applications now open.

Jonathan said: ‘There is something very satisfying about taking money that has come from crime and turning it into something positive for our communities.

‘Instead of that money disappearing into a pot, I want to see it put to work in Hertfordshire whether that’s helping a youth group keep young people out of trouble, supporting vulnerable residents, preventing crime or helping a community tackle a problem on its doorstep.

‘Local people often have some of the best ideas about what would make a difference where they live. They don’t necessarily need tens of thousands of pounds to make them happen. Sometimes a relatively small amount of money can get a brilliant local idea off the ground.

‘That is what Community Cashback is about: taking money from crime and giving it back to communities to do some good.

‘So if you are part of a community organisation with an idea that could make people safer, prevent crime or support victims, I want to hear from you.’

What could the money be used for?

The Commissioner deliberately wants the fund to be open to a wide range of ideas.

That could mean a project giving young people something positive to do, practical measures to prevent crime in a neighbourhood, support for victims or vulnerable residents, tackling anti-social behaviour, helping women and girls feel safer, raising awareness of fraud and cyber crime, or helping local shops and businesses protect themselves from crime.

The key test is simple: will it make a positive difference to the safety of people in Hertfordshire

Registered charities, Community Interest Companies, social enterprises, constituted community groups and other not-for-profit organisations can apply.

Grants of up to £2,500 are available and the application process has been deliberately kept straightforward. The OPCC aims to let successful applicants know within two weeks where possible.

The money comes from the Police Property Act Fund, which is made up of seized money and proceeds raised from property which has been seized and remains unclaimed. Around £125,000 is currently held in the fund, with approximately 24 projects expected to be supported through this round of Community Cashback.

Applications are now open.

Got an idea that could make your community safer? Apply at: https://tinyurl.com/yaufmuuy.

For more information visit herts-pcc.gov.uk.