Wirral community groups invited to apply for funding from Merseyside Police

The deadline is approaching for community groups and organisations to apply for funding to deliver projects that help strengthen communities in Wirral.

A total of £30,000 is available through the EVOLVE Wirral programme, with grants of up to £2,000 on offer for projects taking place in Beechwood & Ballantyne, Noctorum and Woodchurch.

Groups are invited to submit ideas that help address issues linked to crime reduction and community resilience.

Projects could focus on themes including health and wellbeing, youth engagement and intervention, environmental improvements, and community cohesion.

Now in its third year, the funding programme has already supported a wide range of local initiatives, including projects delivered by schools, churches, junior football clubs, sports organisations, charities and Community Interest Companies.

Previous funding has enabled local groups to create activities and opportunities that bring people together, support young people and help make neighbourhoods safer places to live.

Chief Superintendent Mark Wiggins, Area Commander for Wirral BCU, said:

“Communities have a vital role to play in preventing crime and making our neighbourhoods safer.

“Through the EVOLVE Wirral programme, we are working closely with residents, partners and community organisations to address the issues that can leave areas vulnerable to serious and organised crime.

“This funding gives local groups the opportunity to deliver projects that have a real and lasting impact, whether that’s supporting young people, improving community spaces or bringing people together through positive activities.

“We would encourage any organisation with an idea that can benefit local people in Beechwood & Ballantyne, Noctorum or Woodchurch to get involved.”

Groups do not need to be based within the three EVOLVE Wirral areas, but they must be able to demonstrate that their project will be delivered in one of those communities.

The funding is provided by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Merseyside through money recovered from convicted criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

The funds are being reinvested into communities and distributed in partnership with Wirral Council.

Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said:

“We know that the most powerful defence against crime is a strong, connected community, which is why I am pleased to support the EVOLVE Wirral programme.

“This money has been taken directly out of the hands of criminals and is being reinvested where it can make the biggest difference, supporting local people and organisations who are working hard to improve their neighbourhoods.

“Over the past two years, we have seen how relatively small grants can help deliver meaningful projects that bring communities together, provide positive opportunities for young people and create safer, more resilient places to live.

“I would encourage community groups, charities and organisations with ideas that can benefit residents in Beechwood & Ballantyne, Noctorum or Woodchurch to apply and help us continue building brighter futures in these communities.”

EVOLVE Wirral is a local Clear, Hold, Build initiative designed by the Home Office, and delivered through a wide partnership involving Merseyside Police, Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner, Wirral Council, housing providers, health and NHS partners, education providers and schools, community organisations and residents.

The initiative focuses on communities most affected by serious and organised crime, combining targeted policing activity with partner-led interventions and community involvement to prevent criminal exploitation, improve public safety and create stronger, more resilient neighbourhoods.

Cllr Jenny Johnson, Chair of Wirral Council’s Tourism, Communities, Culture and Leisure Committee added:

“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.”

Applicants can discuss project ideas, request an application form, review the funding criteria and terms and conditions, or seek further information by emailing [email protected]. Applications must be received by midday on July 31 2026.

Shortlisted bidders will be invited to present their ideas at a community event at the Floral Pavilion Theatre and Conference Centre on August 24 2026, where local residents will be able to vote for their favourite projects.

The event will also feature arts and crafts, face-painting, refreshments and other family-friendly activities.

Find out more about EVOLVE on the Merseyside Police website.

Find the latest news across Liverpool news here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.