Cash seized from criminals to power new youth projects in Dingle

Community groups, charities and organisations are being invited to apply for a share of £25,000 funding, made available using money seized from criminals and reinvested back into local communities.

From today (Tuesday 18 February) community groups operating in the Liverpool 8 Dingle postcode – or intending to use the funding within the Dingle area – can apply for a grant of up to £5,000 to deliver a youth engagement and intervention project.

The funding has been made available using money seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act, ensuring that cash taken from criminals is redirected to support positive, community‑led initiatives.

Bidders will be required to showcase their ideas to the local community at the Make L8 Great participatory budget event, which will take place at Kings Leadership School in Dingle on Wednesday 25 March 2026.

Neighbourhood Inspector Laura Chandler said: “Make L8 Great is all about empowering the community to shape the opportunities available for young people in the area. This £25,000 fund gives local groups in Dingle the chance to deliver projects that inspire, support and uplift the next generation.

“We know how much talent, passion and creativity exists within Dingle, and this initiative ensures that money taken from those who cause harm is put back into the hands of those who are working hard to make a positive difference. Whether you’re a sports club, mentoring service, community centre or grassroots organisation, we want to hear your ideas.”

Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said: “Redirecting money taken from criminals back into our communities is one of the most powerful ways we can show that crime will not win. This fund gives local groups the opportunity to create positive, meaningful opportunities for young people, whilst supporting vital grassroots organisations who make a valuable contribution to the lives of the people they support. 

“Liverpool 8 is home to incredible community spirit, talent and ambition. By investing in the organisations who know this area best, we can help nurture that potential and give young people the tools and confidence they need to thrive.

“I’m delighted to support Make L8 Great once again and I look forward to seeing the brilliant ideas that local people bring forward to inspire and empower the next generation.”

Those applying for the fund must be a Liverpool 8 (Dingle) based voluntary or community group or intend to use the funding to benefit residents in this specific area. All applications must demonstrate how they will contribute to the key theme of youth engagement and intervention.

Applications are now open, and groups can apply for a maximum of £5,000. To obtain the application criteria, request an application form, or receive further information, email [email protected].

The closing date for entries is 4pm on Friday 6 March 2026. Successful applicants will be announced at the Make L8 Great event at Kings Leadership School on Wednesday 25 March 2026.