New funding scheme for community CCTV launched

The Police and Crime Commissioner is making £125k available in 2025/26

A new fund for CCTV cameras has been set up with the aim of reducing crime in towns and villages across the South West.

The Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is making £125k available to support communities most in need of additional or improved CCTV.

The scheme, launched on Monday, enables councils, voluntary sector groups, and other eligible organisations to apply for a maximum of £10k to pay for camera equipment and infrastructure.

PCC Alison Hernandez said her key priorities were reducing anti-social behaviour, drugs and alcohol, serious violence and theft.

She hopes the funding can help "combat the devastating widespread impact of crime" and it can be used to install news systems or upgrade existing ones.

She said: "I urge councils or equivalent organisations to submit bids for a share of the funding because CCTV is such an effective tool in helping prevent and detect crime as well as offering reassurance to residents and businesses."

Anyone who is interested in applying for CCTV funding can do so by completing an expression of interest form by 24 October, with only one application permitted for each town or parish council.