EVOLVE funding window opens shortly for local groups
Funding is available once again for groups or projects looking to deliver community activities in one of the three areas covered under the EVOLVE Wirral programme.
Groups are able to bid for grants of up to £2,000 which they can use to help tackle serious and organised crime in their area.
£30,000 is available for groups in Beechwood & Ballantyne, Noctorum and Woodchurch to bid for and their ideas can focus on a range of themes related to crime reduction, including health and wellbeing, youth engagement/intervention, environmental issues and community cohesion.
This is the third year that the funding initiative connected to the EVOLVE Wirral programme has been offered and the kind of organisations who have successfully bid in the previous years included schools, churches, local junior football clubs, other sports clubs, charities and local Community Interest Companies.
As has been demonstrated in previous years, the funding being provided under this small grants scheme can enable local, community-minded people to deliver a project or event which makes a difference and demonstrates that, together, the community is stronger.
Bidding groups do not have to be based in one of the three areas covered by EVOLVE Wirral, but they must be able to demonstrate that their project, if successful, can be delivered in one of these areas only.
To discuss an idea, request an application form, check terms and conditions and criteria for funding or just get further information, please email engage@wirral.gov.uk. Applications must be received before midday on July 31st 2026.
Bidders will be required to share their ideas at an event held at the Floral Pavilion Theatre and Conference Centre on 24th August, where local people can vote on their favourite projects. There will be also be arts and crafts, face-painting and other family activities taking place, as well as refreshments available.
EVOLVE Wirral is a local ‘Clear, Hold, Build’ initiative spearheaded by the Home Office and enacted in a number of areas across the UK to improve communities most affected by serious and organised crime. It is a multi-agency partnership using a combination of targeted policing tactics alongside activity from partners and input from residents to protect communities and ultimately prevent organised crime groups from operating.
The funding for the grants programme comes from the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Merseyside out of money obtained under the Proceeds of Crime Act, where assets seized from convicted criminals is reinvested in communities. The funding is being distributed in partnership with Merseyside Police.
