Groups or projects within Wirral’s three EVOLVE areas are being invited to apply for funding to support communities to improve and regenerate local areas, help tackle and reduce the impact of serious organised crime and build community resilience.
EVOLVE Wirral is part of a multi-agency partnership to address issues in areas of Merseyside most affected by incidents of serious and organised crime.
EVOLVE uses 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.
Wirral Council, Merseyside Police and partners are making funding available for groups in Beechwood, Noctorum, and Woodchurch to bid for. They can apply for funding of up to £2,000 to deliver their project, which must focus on one or more themes of community resilience, environmental issues, health and wellbeing, reducing or preventing crime and/or anti-social behaviour, and youth engagement/intervention.
Whether someone wants to put on an environmental action day, provide activities for young people, or hold an event that brings the whole community together to build trust and positivity in the area, Wirral Council and its partners wants to hear people’s ideas.
Bidding groups do not have to be based in one of the three areas covered by EVOLVE Wirral, but their project must be delivered in one or more of these areas.
To discuss an idea, request an application form, or just get further information, please email engage@wirral.gov.uk 
Bidders will be required to showcase their ideas to the local community at a Participatory Budget Event held in each area – Beechwood, Noctorum and Woodchurch – in the new year.
Cllr Helen Cameron, Chair of the Tourism, Communities, Culture and Leisure Committee for Wirral Council, said, “The council’s focus within EVOLVE Wirral is to support and strengthen these communities, building confidence amongst residents that agencies like Merseyside Police, Wirral Council and partners are committed to taking action against the kind of organised crime that is causing serious harm to their quality of life.
“The majority of residents are honest, law-abiding people and they deserve to be able to live in an area that is safe and not overshadowed by serious organised crime.
“The funding being provided under this small grants scheme will hopefully enable groups who are committed to doing good in their local area to deliver a project or event which makes a difference and demonstrates that, together, the community is stronger.”
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