A COMMUNITY action fund has awarded more than £60,000 to 16 community and voluntary organisations across Avon and Somerset.

The money was awarded by Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Sue Mountstevens, through her Community Action Fund.

Out of the 16 projects, 10 of those focus on tackling anti-social behaviour.

Projects awarded funding include Key- 4Life, a Somerset organisation which received £5,000 to commission a six month programme to support 15 young men at risk of re-offending.

PCC Sue Mountstevens said: “I am delighted that we received numerous applications for the fund and I am overwhelmed with their innovative nature towards supporting the policing priorities and addressing things that matter to people.

“Funding has been allocated to a range of initiatives and I was encouraged by the applications with interesting suggestions towards tackling anti-social behaviour, supporting victims and making our communities be safe and feel safe.”

The fund is awarded by the Police Com- munity Trust to projects which address the PCC’s priorities.

Chair of the trust, Bea Salter said: “The trustees are encouraged by the calibre of applications they continue to receive.

“It is clear that our communities have a real desire to make a difference.”

The fund will re-open on January 3, and will welcome applications that support the priorities in the PCC’s new Police and Crime Plan.

For more information visit avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.