Community groups and charities across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are being invited to apply for support from the Police Property Act Fund, with a new round of funding now open.
The fund, administered by Cornwall Community Foundation on behalf of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), uses money generated through the sale of property seized by police and authorised for disposal by the courts. This year, funding will focus on supporting grassroots organisations tackling the root causes of anti-social behaviour and helping people who may be struggling to find a positive way forward.
The fund has already helped make a difference to communities across Cornwall. In 2025, grants totalling £37,750 were awarded to eight organisations delivering projects designed to prevent harm, improve wellbeing and create safer communities.
Projects supported included West Cornwall Women’s Aid’s 16 Days of Activism programme, which engaged more than 1,300 people through community events and activities and reached more than 30,000 people online. First Light South West received funding for its HappyHealthyLove digital prevention programme, which provided young people, parents and educators with information about healthy relationships, consent and abuse prevention, attracting more than 67,000 webpage views.
The fund has a proven track record of supporting projects that reduce anti-social behaviour and create opportunities. Previous grants have enabled St Petrocs to deliver its Freshfield Drug Diversionary Project, supporting people experiencing homelessness to reduce substance misuse by providing access to counselling, skills training and community activities. Funding has also helped Bodmin Amateur Boxing Club provide free sessions and equipment for young people who might otherwise be unable to participate, with beneficiaries reporting improved wellbeing, stronger community connections and a reduced likelihood of engaging in anti-social behaviour.
Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said:
“The Police Property Act Fund transforms the proceeds of crime into opportunities that benefit local people and communities.
“By supporting organisations that work directly with those most at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour, or who need help to overcome challenges in their lives, we can make a lasting difference. These local groups understand the needs of their communities and are often best placed to provide early support and positive opportunities.
“I have seen first-hand the impact previous grants have had across Cornwall, helping charities and community organisations deliver projects that build confidence, improve wellbeing and make communities safer. I would encourage eligible organisations to apply.”
Tamas Haydu, Chief Executive Officer, Cornwall Community Foundation:
said: “We’re delighted to be working together to launch another round of funding through the Police Property Act Fund. This time, the funding will focus on supporting grassroots organisations tackling the root causes of anti-social behaviour and helping people who may be struggling to find a way forward.
“By investing in local organisations that understand their communities and are best placed to make a difference, we can help create positive opportunities, build stronger communities and, ultimately, contribute to happier, safer places across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.”
Applications in Cornwall are now open through Cornwall Community Foundation. Eligible organisations are encouraged to apply and can find further information about funding priorities, eligibility criteria and application deadlines at Police Property Act 2026 – Grant | Cornwall Community Foundation.
The Police Property Act Fund also supports projects in Devon through Devon Community Foundation, which administers the programme separately through its own grants process.
Key dates
- Applications open: Now
- Application deadline: 21 October 2026
- Assessment panel: Early December 2026
- Grant decisions announced: Mid-December 2026
- Estimated grant payments: Mid-December 2026