Deadline to apply for Vulnerability Fund grants extended

The deadline has been extended for community organisations, charities and non-profit groups in the High Peak to apply for small grants from a new fund to tackle crime and vulnerability. 

Grants of between £50 and £1,000 are available through High Peak Community & Voluntary Support (CVS) from Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhindsa's Vulnerability Fund worth £485,000. 

It's part of a dedicated effort to tackle the social problems known to increase the risk of crime or victimisation. 

Groups who "share the PCC's vision to build safer and stronger communities and to reduce the risk of crime" are being encouraged to apply. 

They now have until 1 September 2021 to do so. 

The Vulnerability Fund is "designed to empower communities to develop practical solutions to the problems occurring in their areas and take fresh approaches to old issues to protect individuals and families". 

Micro-grants from £50 to £1,000 are available for projects such as target hardening to improve security at the homes of vulnerable people including repeat victims of crime and those who are isolated through age, frailty, poor mental health or mobility issues.

"This is a hugely ambitious scheme and will provide help for communities in a way that has never been done before," said Mr Dhindsa (pictured).

"Social isolation, poor health, lack of opportunity and disability increase the risk of exploitation. The pandemic has exacerbated those challenges and created additional pressure for those on low incomes, the unemployed and those shielding.

"This fund will directly target vulnerability as means of protecting people and lessening the threats they are exposed to. It focuses on the individuals, families and communities that require urgent support to safeguard lives and prevent harm. It also empowers communities themselves to take action and work together on the issues which impact on residents most.

"Having police officers who are accessible and visible in our communities is critical for public safety but there are valuable and effective community services out there which can help build resilience in individuals, promote cohesion and prevent personal crisis. It's all about teamwork."

People can find out more and fill out an application form by visiting the High Peak CVS website. 

The deadline for applying is Monday 1 March. 

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