Do you like the idea of using criminals' ill-gotten gains to fund local projects tackling anti-social behaviour?

That's the aim of a grant scheme that's just been opened by Devon and Cornwall's Police and Crime Commissioner, Alison Hernandez.

Community and voluntary groups, including schools and town/parish councils, are invited to apply for up to £5,000 from a pot of £25,000, which has come from the sale of items seized from criminals. These include stolen items which couldn't be returned to their rightful owners.

Ms Hernandez is keen for this money to be spent on small local projects that will reduce anti-social behaviour and improve community safety, while also supporting the recovery from the effects of the Covid pandemic.

'I want everyone to feel safe'

She said: "As we come out of Covid-related restrictions I am hearing community concerns about anti-social behaviour (ASB) and how it affects people's day-to-day lives.

"While for some people this may not be a big concern, for many it affects their quality of life each and every day, and I want everyone to feel safe in the areas where they live, work and play.

"This scheme will help smaller communities get initiatives and schemes off the ground that will tackle the ASB problems they are experiencing.

"The best solutions are locally led."

Who can apply for the cash?

• Schools, where there is a charitable arm, the project or activity has a clear benefit to the wider community and is over and above statutory provision.
• Parish or town councils, where there is a charitable arm, the project or activity has a clear benefit to the wider community and is over and above statutory duty
• Churches or church groups, where the project or activity has a clear benefit to the wider community and is not promoting a specific religion or worship
• National charities, where there is a local branch that is managed locally and has its own bank account.

Applications are now being invited for consideration, and will be accepted until 12 noon on Monday, September 13.

The scheme is being administered by Devon Community Foundation.

To find out more, and make an application, click here.