Violence Reduction Fund 2026

The 2026 Community Grant Fund is now open to applications for funding to support initiatives and projects aimed at preventing people from becoming involved in violence.

Community groups, social enterprises and non-profit organisations from across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield are invited to apply for up to £20,000 to support delivery of projects over a 12‑month period. Projects must help to prevent violence, reduce harm and support people to live safer, healthier lives.

Funding can be used to establish new activities, build on existing projects or trial new and innovative approaches which respond to local needs and priorities.

The VRU takes a public health approach to tackling the root causes of violence and this funding round is designed to empower local organisations which understand their communities best and are making a real difference on the ground.

For 2026, the VRU will support projects that align with the following priority areas:

• Reducing / Preventing Knife Crime
• Reducing Violence Against Women and Girls, targeted at those under 25.
• Coaching and Mentoring to Reduce Violence
• Diversionary activities away from violent crime
• Reducing / Addressing Racial disproportionality in Serious Youth Violence

To support prospective applicants, a “Come and Find Out More” workshop will be held online on 3 June at 2pm.

This session will provide community organisations with an overview of what the VRU is looking for in applications, along with useful guidance and tips to help you submit a strong proposal. Please use the following link to sign up to the workshop: Community Grant Workshop

For more information and to apply please read the information below:

Violence Reduction Fund Application Form 2026 (DOCX 112KB)

Application Form Guidance Notes 2026 (DOCX 108KB)

Grant Agreement VRU Grants – SYMCA 2026-27 (DOCX 106KB)

Grant Guidance Notes 2026 (DOCX 979KB)

Your Voice, Your Experience (PDF 245KB)