Community projects to make Hertfordshire’s town centres safer and better places to shop can bid for up to £5,000 worth of funding under a grant scheme run by the police commissioner.

Money is available to groups in Hemel Hempstead and other towns within Hertfordshire. Herts Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Jonathan Ash-Edwards has invited groups to apply for funding available through his Safer Town Centres project.

Previous programmes funded through the scheme include North Herts Women’s safety charter, access to a mobile police station, a number of youth ‘diversion’ groups as well as a theft prevention marking in St Albans.

Announcing the scheme again this year, Mr Ash-Edwards said: “Through the summer, our safer town centres is up and running to work together to ensure we’re keeping our brilliant towns safe and vibrant.

Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards

placeholder image — Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards

“As part of that, I’ve been offering grant funding to local organisations and public services for projects that they’re delivering to contribute to that goal.

“We’ve had some really good bids and projects through. Applications are still open, go and check the link below to see if your organisation is eligible for our Safer Town Centres grant scheme.”

Groups eligible to apply include local organisations, voluntary groups, businesses, Herts Constabulary itself, plus local authorities at all levels including town and parish councils.

Councils and the police may be able to bid for more if they offer match funding, in the event of “exceptionally strong or impactful bids”.

The deadline for applications is December 31. To apply, visit the link here.