Community projects across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have benefitted from funding made possible by the proceeds of crime. 

Police and Crime Commissioner Daryl Preston established his Youth Fund to give people the opportunity to learn new skills.

Over the last 12 months, funding worth £98k has been awarded to 33 projects across the county.

The Youth fund is now closed to new applicants but will continue to support the work of the current organisations benefiting from the funding.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston said: “It has been incredibly heart-warming to see the results of my fund enabling young people to have access to positive opportunities within their communities.

“These innovative projects allow young people to learn skills with positive role models in safe places allowing them to prosper.”

Among a number of projects receiving support is Wisbech Housing Related Support who provide accommodation for up to 23 young people between 16-25-year-olds. 

It received £3,000 for residents to access a fully-equipped weekly fitness van to improve mental and physical wellbeing. 

Peterborough Police Box Club was awarded £3,500 in funding to deliver a boxing show for more than 300 young people to showcase how they use their skills in a positive way. 

Soham Town Council benefitted from £3,500 for 12-weekly drop-in bus service sessions for young people to access an outreach support worker.  

Meanwhile, Huntingdon District Council received £714.84 towards a 12-week programme to tackle anti-social behaviour in Huntingdon town centre. 

Louise Chilvers, service manager at Wisbech Housing Related Support said: “The whole team is excited to be able to make a start on the projects which will improve the mental health and physical wellbeing of young people living in housing related support.

“We are especially looking forward to the weekly fitness van as it brings exercise to the doorstep, making health accessible and convenient for all.”

The commissioner’s Youth Fund was set up to deter young people who may be at risk from becoming involved in criminal or anti-social activities by getting them actively involved in productive and skill building community projects across the county.

Voluntary and community organisations based in the county who are working with young people aged between 5 and 18, or up to 25 years old for those with Special Educational Needs or disabilities were invited to bid for up to £3,500.