OVER £35,000 has been awarded to groups across Avon and Somerset from the Police and Crime Commissioners community action fund.

The theme for the applications was serving the diverse needs of local communities across the force area.

Some of the successful services and initiatives who were awarded a grant from PCC Sue Mountstevens included the RSPCA and Unchosen.

The RSPCA support victims of domestic abuse by providing temporary foster care for pets so that their owners can leave their abuser and find a safe home.

Unchosen produce films and resources to raise awareness of modern slavery.

PCC Sue Mountstevens said: “This round of applications highlighted the many different ways that communities and organisations can address my police and crime priorities.

That’s what makes the community action fund so great.

“Only you know the priorities that matter to your local communities the most and only you know how best to tackle these issues to ensure that where you live is safe and feels safe. I want to hear your ideas and support you to make it happen.” The police community trust, for which the PCC is a trustee, is responsible for considering applications made to the community action fund.

The trust also holds a road safety fund.

Chairwoman of the police community trust, Bea Salter said: “I agree whole heartedly with the sentiments of Sue Mountstevens.

“The trustees are keen to continue encouraging the development of community partnerships to help tackle a wide range of issues, they are happy to receive and consider applications from many community and other local voluntary organisations in line with the trust’s aims and objectives.”

Community and voluntary organisations are invited to apply for up to £5,000 from the Commissioner’s community action fund.

Applications are welcomed throughout the year. For more information, visit avonandsomerset.police.uk/services/police-community-trust/