NEWS Op Relentless Community Fund open for bids
The Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset is delighted to re-launch the Op Relentless Community Fund to help tackle Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB).
The fund was set up in 2021 to support Dorset based community groups and charities with initiatives and projects aimed at tackling ASB by taking appropriate action for their local area.
Grants are being made available to organisations for projects and initiatives that reduce ASB and/or increase public feeling of safety in areas disproportionately affected by ASB. Applications from £100 up to £5,000 are welcomed, the projects must address ASB and have a local focus.
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am delighted to bring back the Op Relentless Community Fund. Over the past year, I have been to visit some of the ten projects that received funding to see how they have put the money to good use.
“I have been to see the new CCTV set up in near Christ Church and the Community Hub in Creekmoor, Poole where the levels of ASB in the area were increasing and putting residents in fear and I have visited Weymouth Skatepark where funding provided local children with free skateboard lessons, which may not sound that important or maybe perceived a soft option - but when it comes to preventing the boredom that often leads to ASB, I believe it’s important to create options, provide alternatives and give guidance and support.
The grant funding to Weymouth Skatepark has allowed children, including some who have with special educational needs and some who are at cross-roads when it comes to committing crime and ASB, to learn a new skill, to be in a safe space, to be part of an organised and positive group which aims to encourage them to become part of a wider supportive community group, to stay safe and most of all to stay out of trouble – all of which can only be viewed as a positive.”
“The Op Relentless fund is aimed at bringing forward practical solutions to Dorset’s problems, so if you are a charity or local project and you fit the bidding criteria – I would encourage you to bid for funding. Together, we can banish ASB and make our county safer for everyone.”