Charities and community organisations across Greater Manchester are being encouraged to apply for a share of cash recovered from criminals.
The funds, distributed through the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS), come from money seized by police from criminal activity. They are reinvested into local communities to prevent crime, support victims, and help reduce anti-social behaviour. The latest bidding window is open throughout January.
Previous successful bids include Child Safety Media, which delivers Crucial Crew safety sessions for children, and Pure Insight, a peer-led programme supporting more than 175 care leavers across the city region. First Kick Foundation, which works with primary schools in Bury to engage and empower young people, has also benefited.
Detective Superintendent Andrew Buckthorpe, head of GMP’s Economic and Cyber Crime Unit, said: “It is fitting that the money we seize from the proceeds of crime is being used to help fight, prevent and reduce crime, keep people safe, and care for victims. This ultimately makes Greater Manchester a better place to live, work and visit. We would encourage groups that make a difference in their communities to apply.”
One of the 12 organisations funded through ARIS in September 2025 was the Elite Community Hub CIC in Bolton. The centre provides free boxing sessions for over 350 children and teenagers each week, alongside wellbeing classes for veterans and over-50s. It also offers inclusive boxing for young people with special educational needs and runs free half-term holiday clubs with meals and activities.
Project Manager Kallum Wallbank said the hub works closely with youth agencies to attract young offenders and others who might not usually engage with structured programmes. “We want to focus on music and educating young people on nutrition,” he explained, “so we can provide opportunities beyond the boxing ring.”
Director and Head Coach Scott Mitchell added: “Our ethos has always been about taking young people who are often labelled as ‘uncoachable’ and helping them become employable adults. Boxing gave us structure, discipline and direction, and we’re committed to giving the next generation the same diversion and guidance.”
Inspector Nicholas Bonson praised the hub’s approach, noting that the ARIS funds would support new projects including music and cooking lessons, educational resources, and life skills mentoring. “These initiatives provide meaningful diversion and mentorship, benefiting both individuals and the wider community,” he said.
Charities and community groups can now submit bids to ARIS. Applications will be judged on their ability to reduce or prevent crime, protect victims, support community projects, and reinvest recovered assets. Successful applicants will receive support throughout the funding process.
