NORTHWICH and Winsford community projects are among 28 across Cheshire to benefit from a share of around £100,000.

The cash, awarded by Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Dan Price, comes from the SWAP Fund, which was launched in September from the Proceeds of Crime Act.

This means that the money has been seized or recuperated from criminals.

The SWAP Fund - Safety, Working Together, Action and Prevention - aims to transform money obtained in a negative way into positive community change.

Among the funded projects are those catering to young people, offering them a safe place to thrive and channel their energy.

In Northwich, Superbox (Northwich) CIC and Wincham Parish Council have been granted funding to support survivors of sexual abuse and enhance nighttime safety in a local park.

In Winsford, the GGO Community Group and the Winsford Youth Community Forum have both received a share of the funds.

Projects in Holmes Chapel, including the Holmes Chapel Scout Group and Everybody Health and Leisure, aim to help young people learn new skills and build positive relationships.

PCC Dan Price said: "I want to help Cheshire’s communities to be safe.

"My SWAP fund is one of the ways I’m encouraging communities to get involved.

"The money I’ve made available is the largest amount committed by a Cheshire PCC.

"This demonstrates my clear commitment to residents across the county that I will provide what help I can to help them feel safer in their area."

Mr Price added: "Community projects have the power to have a real impact on crime.

"I have seen that often there is clear evidence that positive grassroots projects can divert those who would have committed crime down other avenues.

"I’m looking forward to visiting those who have been awarded the funding, seeing first-hand the positive impact they’ve had."

In order to be eligible for funding, projects had to demonstrate that they could meet one of Mr Price's priorities.

These include improving community safety, supporting victims, providing early intervention programmes, and reducing reoffending.

The SWAP Fund is still open for applications, with particular interest in express grants of £1,000, which will receive a decision within two weeks of applying.

Mr Price said: "There is still money left in the fund, so I would continue to encourage projects to apply.

"Even if your project needs a small cash injection, if it meets the criteria my team and I want to hear from you."

More information about the SWAP fund can be found on the Cheshire PCC website.