Charities and voluntary groups across Essex that are helping to protect people from harm, support victims of crime, or make their communities safer can now apply for grants from the High Sheriffs’ Fund, managed by Essex Community Foundation (ECF).

The High Sheriffs’ Fund provides vital support to a wide range of local initiatives and groups working to improve community safety. This includes efforts focused on crime prevention, rehabilitation, and many other related issues.

Grants of up to £5,000 have previously supported projects such as services for victims of modern slavery, counselling for women and children affected by domestic abuse, diversionary activities for young people, and work placement schemes for ex-offenders.

The current High Sheriff of Essex, Susannah (Susie) Dutton, has seen first-hand the dedication of volunteers and community organisations working to make Essex a safer place for everyone.

Grants of up to £5,000 are available to support organisations working across Essex, Southend and Thurrock for a wide range of work and projects. These include efforts focused on crime prevention, rehabilitation, and working to improve community safety.

The Fund is open to any community project,  group or charity across Essex with focuses linked to community safety. 

The deadline for applications is 16 November 2026, and the panel will meet to review submissions in February 2027.

To apply,  Click here  and select High Sheriff’s Fund from the dropdown menu.

You can also call the Grants Team on 01245 355947 for more information. We always recommend getting in touch first to ensure you have the right guidance before submitting your application