£25,000 available for Belle Vale community projects using seized criminal assets

Community groups, charities, and grassroots organisations are invited to apply for a share of £25,000 in funding, made available through money seized from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Grants ranging from £500 to £5,000 are available for projects that will benefit the Belle Vale area.

Whether an organisation is looking to expand an existing initiative or launch something new, this funding offers a valuable opportunity to make a real difference, using funds taken directly from those who harm Merseyside communities.

Applicants will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas directly to the community at the Belle Vale Matters Participatory Budget Event, taking place at the Millennium Centre on Friday 1 August 2025. Local residents will vote to decide which projects receive funding.

Inspector Steve Reilly, from the local policing team said: “This funding gives local groups the power to create positive change. It’s about turning criminal gains into community good and showing that Belle Vale is stronger when we work together.

“Whether you're a sports club, youth group, or outreach service, we want to hear your ideas. This initiative takes cash out of the pockets of criminals and puts it back into local communities, which is where it belongs.” 

Applications are open to voluntary or community groups based in Belle Vale, or those intending to use the funding to benefit residents in the area.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 29 June 2025.

Shortlisting will take place in July, led by a working group including representatives from Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Fire and Rescue, and local housing providers.

Successful applicants will be announced at the Belle Vale Matters event on Friday 1 August 2025.

To request an application form, obtain the full criteria, or ask for further information, email [email protected].

Eligibility Criteria

• The maximum bid allowed is £5,000.
• Multiple bids from a single organisation/group/applicant will not be accepted.
• If electronic media is to be used to support the 2-minute pitch these will be included in the 2-minute allocated time slot. PDF versions must be shared with the group organisers 48 hours prior to the event.
• Those bidding must be from a community group operating or intending to use funding within Belle Vale.
• Constituted and Non-constituted groups can apply.
• A representative from the community group must provide a 2-minute pitch on the day of the Participatory Budget event outlining their proposed bid.
• Bidders will not be allowed to vote.
• Basic Vetting will be completed by Merseyside Police prior to the event.
• If you would like to complete an application form, please email [email protected] requesting a copy of the form.