Summer activity funding boost returns for a second year

Cheshire’s communities can bid for up to £2,000 to provide summer holiday activities for young people across the county as Dan Price, Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner opens applications to his SWAP Summer Support Fund for a second year.

Funded through the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), the scheme takes money seized from criminals and reinvests it directly back into local communities.

The £50k funding pot will help tackle boredom and reduce excessive screen time during the holidays by supporting community groups, charities, social enterprise and not-for-profit organisations to deliver activities that promote young people’s wellbeing.

Last year young people across the county benefited from a diverse offer of sports sessions and dance workshops to creative arts, cooking experiences, animal therapy and first aid training. The range of activities on offer ensured there was something for everyone. These helped participants to build confidence, learn new skills and enjoy a safe, supportive environment throughout the summer.

Anna Burton from Nantwich Youth and Community Centre (NYCC) said:

“The funding we received through the SWAP scheme made a real difference to what we could offer young people. It enabled us to deliver events like our teen rock festivals and day trips, giving youngsters opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have had.

“We saw a real impact - it helped put NYCC on the map and boosted the confidence of young musicians, many of whom were performing live for the first time.”

A youngster from Kingsway Boxing Club in Widnes who also benefited from last year’s fund said:

“Spending time at the boxing club over the holidays has helped me pick up lots of new skills, especially perseverance and the importance of not giving up. It’s something I know I can take back into school with me, particularly when it comes to tackling tests.”

Dan Price, Police and Crime Commissioner said:

“The 2025 Summer SWAP fund gave a cash boost to almost 30 community projects. These reached young people across the county and offered a variety of activities including dance workshops, creative arts and cooking experiences, to help steer them towards positive opportunities and away from harmful influences.

“We’re now looking forward to building on the positive impact we’ve seen and I’m now welcoming applications for this year’s fund. Together we can continue to support inspiring projects that give young people the right guidance, keep them engaged and help them make positive choices for their future.”

Projects will need to be delivered between July - September 2026 and should fulfil one of the following priorities:

• Support children and young people
• Promote physical and mental well-being
• Reduce isolation and promote inclusion

The application window is now open and closes on Wednesday 17^th June 2026 at 5pm.

More information about the SWAP Summer Support Fund and the application form can be found here: 

Cheshire PCC website.