South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit Grant

The South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) has opened applications for its 2026 Community Grants Fund, inviting community groups, social enterprises, and non-profit organisations to apply for funding to tackle violence and improve community safety. Grants of up to £20,000 are available to support projects delivered over a 12‑month period.

The fund aims to prevent violence, reduce harm, and promote safer, healthier lives using a public health approach that addresses the root causes of violence. Funding can be used to launch new activities, expand existing programmes, or pilot innovative solutions that respond to local priorities and needs.

The VRU emphasises the importance of community-led action, recognising that local organisations are best placed to understand and respond to the challenges within their communities. Projects focusing on early intervention, positive opportunities, and long-term impact are especially encouraged.

For 2026, priority areas include reducing knife crime, tackling violence against women and girls (particularly under 25s), mentoring and coaching initiatives, diversionary activities to steer people away from crime, and addressing racial disparities in serious youth violence.

The funding round closes at midday on 26 June 2026.

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