£20K GRANTS AVAILABLE TO TACKLE VIOLENCE IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE

Published 1 June 2026 at 1:00pm

The South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) is opening up its for applications to the 2026 Community Grants Fund and is inviting community groups, social enterprises and non‑profit organisations from across South Yorkshire to apply.

The fund (which will open on Monday 1 June) will provide grants of up to £20K to support organisations delivering projects over a 12‑month period that help prevent violence, reduce harm and support people to live safer, healthier lives.

Funding can be used to establish new activities, build on existing projects or trial new and innovative approaches which respond to local needs and priorities.

The VRU takes a public health approach to tackling the root causes of violence and this funding round is designed to empower local organisations which understand their communities best and are making a real difference on the ground.

South Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Kilvinder Vigurs, said: “Community organisations are the backbone of our efforts to reduce violence and build safer neighbourhoods.

“Through the VRU Community Grants Fund, we are investing in the passion, creativity and commitment of local groups who understand the needs of their communities best.

“Over the last year, I have seen first‑hand the difference this funding has made, supporting projects that are giving people positive opportunities, strengthening community resilience and helping to prevent violence before it happens.

“These grants enable local organisations to turn good ideas into practical action and I would encourage all eligible groups to apply and help us create a safer South Yorkshire for everyone.”

Kelly Wilson, Head of the South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit, added: “Our Community Grants Fund is about backing the people and organisations who are already doing vital work to prevent violence and support people across South Yorkshire.

“We know that long‑term change happens when local communities are properly supported, which is why we are encouraging applications from projects that focus on early intervention, positive opportunities and addressing the underlying causes of harm.”

For 2026, the VRU will support projects that align with the following priority areas:

• Reducing / Preventing Knife Crime

• Reducing Violence Against Women and Girls, targeted at those under 25.

• Coaching and Mentoring to Reduce Violence

• Diversionary activities away from violent crime
• Reducing / Addressing Racial disproportionality in Serious Youth Violence

To support prospective applicants, a “Come and Find Out More” workshop will be held on 3 June at 2pm.

This session will provide community organisations with an overview of what the VRU is looking for in applications, along with useful guidance and tips to help you submit a strong proposal. Please use the following link to sign up to the workshop: Community Grant Workshop

Applications will open on Monday 1 June and will close at midday on 26 June.

For full eligibility criteria and details on how to apply, click here to visit the Violence Reduction Fund 2026 page.