Deadline: 06-May-2026
The PCSP Small Grants Scheme by Policing and Community Safety Partnerships provides funding between £1,000 and £4,000 to support community-led projects that improve safety and reduce crime. The program focuses on tackling anti-social behaviour, enhancing trust in policing, and addressing emerging safety issues through collaboration and early intervention. It is designed for local groups to deliver practical, high-impact initiatives aligned with the Community Safety Framework.
About the Scheme
The PCSP Small Grants Scheme supports community and voluntary groups to deliver projects that address local safety concerns.
The program aims to:
- Reduce crime and anti-social behaviour
- Improve public confidence in policing
- Strengthen collaboration between communities and authorities
- Promote safer and more resilient communities
It emphasizes community-led, locally relevant solutions.
Key Program Objectives
The scheme focuses on:
- Tackling anti-social behaviour and crime
- Enhancing community confidence in policing
- Supporting partnership-based approaches
- Promoting early intervention strategies
- Encouraging community participation in safety planning
Projects should align with the Community Safety Framework and contribute to local safety priorities.
Priority Focus Areas
Projects should address one or more of the following:
- Anti-social behaviour – diversionary activities and awareness
- Drugs and alcohol misuse – education and prevention
- Hate crime – awareness and inclusion initiatives
- Cybercrime – fraud, scams, and online safety education
- Road safety – safe driving and pedestrian awareness
- Youth engagement – activities that reduce risk and promote safety
These areas reflect current and emerging community safety challenges.
Types of Supported Projects
Eligible initiatives may include:
- Behaviour change programs
- Community awareness campaigns
- Educational workshops and training
- Youth diversion and engagement activities
- Local safety improvement initiatives
Projects must demonstrate clear impact and measurable outcomes.
Funding Details
- Grant size: £1,000 to £4,000
- Purpose: Small-scale, high-impact community projects
- Focus: Local, evidence-based interventions
The funding is designed to support practical and innovative solutions.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Community groups
- Voluntary organizations
- Local partnerships
Applicants should:
- Demonstrate community involvement
- Address local safety needs
- Show ability to deliver effective projects
- Collaborate with relevant stakeholders
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Identify a Local Safety Issue
Focus on a priority area affecting your community. - Develop a Project Proposal
Design a practical, outcome-focused initiative. - Build Partnerships
Collaborate with local stakeholders and agencies. - Prepare Application
Include objectives, activities, and expected outcomes. - Submit Application
Ensure alignment with PCSP priorities and framework.
Why This Grant Matters
The scheme supports grassroots action on community safety.
Key benefits:
- Enables local solutions to local problems
- Strengthens trust between communities and policing
- Encourages collaboration and shared responsibility
- Supports early intervention to prevent crime
It plays a key role in building safer communities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Lack of clear local need or evidence
- Weak or unclear project outcomes
- Limited community involvement
- No collaboration with partners
- Misalignment with priority areas
Tips for a Strong Application
- Use local data or evidence to justify your project
- Focus on measurable outcomes
- Demonstrate strong community engagement
- Highlight collaboration with stakeholders
- Keep the proposal clear and practical
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the PCSP Small Grants Scheme?
Community and voluntary groups working on local safety issues.
2. What is the funding range?
Between £1,000 and £4,000.
3. What types of projects are supported?
Projects addressing crime, anti-social behaviour, and community safety.
4. Are partnerships required?
Yes, collaboration with local stakeholders is strongly encouraged.
5. What are the priority focus areas?
Anti-social behaviour, drugs, hate crime, cybercrime, road safety, and youth engagement.
6. What is the main goal of the scheme?
To improve community safety and confidence in policing.
7. Are small projects eligible?
Yes, the scheme specifically supports small-scale initiatives.
Conclusion
The PCSP Small Grants Scheme by Policing and Community Safety Partnerships is an important opportunity for community groups to address local safety challenges.
By supporting innovative, collaborative, and evidence-based projects, the program helps build safer, more resilient communities while strengthening trust in policing systems.
For more information, visit Ards and North Down Borough Council.
