Funding worth almost £1 million from proceeds of crime receipts is to be invested in communities, Justice Minister Naomi Long has announced.

The funding from the Assets Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS) has been allocated across 82 projects to help make a positive difference by tackling crime and the fear of crime. These projects, which will be delivered throughout Northern Ireland, have been offered funding totalling approximately £337,000 in 2022/23 and £625,000 in 2023/24.

The ARCS budget is derived from confiscation orders which may be made following a criminal conviction to recover the proceeds of crime. The Scheme supports the Department's commitment to work in partnership to create a fair, just and safe community where we respect the law and each other.

Naomi Long said: "The Scheme is an excellent example of investing in our people and communities to enable positive change. The projects supported in this round of funding will benefit victims, communities and the environment through a wide range of programmes. I trust that this funding will help make a difference in supporting people who want to work for the good of their community."

Recovering the proceeds of crime and reinvesting ill-gotten gains, into communities impacted by serious organised criminality, sends a powerful message that crime does not pay. Initiatives funded include working with young people to build skills and confidence; addressing anti-social behaviour and environmental crime; reducing re-offending; supporting victims of modern slavery, labour exploitation, domestic abuse and hate crime; raising awareness of fraud and scams and organised crime; and support for community safety initiatives.

Naomi Long added: "The impact of organised crime, motivated by financial gain, can affect individuals, communities and businesses. I commend the work of partners on the Organised Crime Task Force who prioritise the identification and removal of criminal assets. We can all play a part in tackling it. I would encourage anyone with any concerns to call the police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."