20/09/2004

Community groups receive funding to target gun crime

A new government initiative aimed at tackling gun crime is to be funded in part by recycled criminals' cash it has emerged today.

Home Office Minister Caroline Flint announced today that the Connected Fund, which was launched in May, will provide £250,000 for local groups working in the areas worst affected by gun crime. The scheme targets those at risk from being drawn into gun crime and victims.

Ms Flint said that it is essential that funding reaches those working in the heart of the community, as they can react quickly to events on the ground.

She added that in conjunction with police and community groups, this latest initiative is yielding results in the worst hit areas. To date more than 50 local groups have benefited.

The Fund opens today and individual grants for up to £5,000 will be considered. The closing date for return of bids is 12 November.

(mmcg/mb)


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