The Local Youth Fund is back, with £12,000 available for projects to tackle serious violence.

Police Commissioner Susan Dungworth has today announced the return of the Local Youth Fund, giving more young people the chance to put forward innovative ideas on how serious violence and knife crime is prevented.

With £12,000 available for youth-led projects, this initiative aims to harness the creativity and insight of young people, in a bid to create safer streets and stronger communities.

The Violence Reduction Unit’s Local Youth Fund invites young people to share their views and experiences of serious violence, and propose forward-thinking solutions, to be in with a chance of receiving a share of the funding.

The initiative provides young people with a platform to have their voices heard, as they help shape the future of their local areas.

In previous rounds, the fund has supported over 80 projects, directly benefitting more than 5,200 young people, who have seen their ideas brought to life with projects ranging from sports activities, youth-led campaigns and drop in sessions.

This highlights the creativity and dedication of young people across the region, and through the return of the fund, it seeks new ideas to continue making a positive impact.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “I am committed to making our streets safer and communities stronger – but to achieve this, it is essential that our young people are involved in key decisions made about their local areas.”

“In doing so, we not only address the issue of violence head on, but also empower our young people to take an active role in shaping the future of local areas. That’s why the Violence Reduction Unit’s Local Youth Fund is a pivotal step in giving them the chance to make a real difference.”

“I’m delighted to announce the return of the fund, giving more young people the chance to share their vision, so if you have a creative idea, apply now to bring your project to life. I am looking forward to hearing your ideas, and to seeing them in action soon.”

Young people are now encouraged to apply for funding, with the support of community and youth-based organisations, by submitting project proposals that they think will prevent serious violence and knife crime in their local areas.

When the fund closes on Monday 13^th October 2025, a panel of young people will review all bids, before selecting one successful project per local authority area to receive a share of the funding.

For more information about the Local Youth Fund, and how to apply, visit the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit website.