The Safer Streets 5 project is hoping to build on the successes of previous rounds, whilst also incorporating learnings and feedback.

The scheme will run for an 18-month period between October 2023 and March 2025 and look to tackle neighbourhood crime, violence against women and girls (VAWG) and anti-social behaviour (ASB).

Chief Superintendent Jaki Whittred, from Bedfordshire Police, said:

“The Safer Streets scheme gives us the tools to run major prevention and early intervention projects around key crime types which concern our communities.

“From working with young people in schools and colleges through to targeted patrols in key areas affected by these crimes – this funding will help us provide visible reassurance and make long term change.

“We are fully supportive of this work and will work tirelessly alongside our partners to ensure Safer Streets continues to deliver a big impact across Bedfordshire.”

Projects set to be funded include a targeted schools education programme that improves understanding of ASB and the impact it has, investment in local schemes like Neighbourhood Watch and interventions for young people about Violence Against Women and Girls”