Justice Minister Naomi Long has opened a new funding round under the Assets Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS), which channels money seized from criminals into projects to improve community safety across Northern Ireland.

The scheme has operated since 2012 and has distributed more than £10 million to various organisations. Funds come from confiscation orders obtained by law enforcement agencies following criminal convictions.

Applications are now being accepted for a three-year programme covering the 2027/28, 2028/29 and 2029/30 financial years. Eligible applicants include voluntary and community sector organisations, registered charities and statutory bodies delivering projects in Northern Ireland.

Projects may apply for between £5,000 and £25,000 per year in any or all of the three years. Potential activities include tackling crime, reducing fear of crime, supporting safe and resilient communities, reinforcing that crime does not pay, building public confidence in the justice system, reducing reoffending and diverting vulnerable people from criminal behaviour.

The scheme is not intended to fund capital projects or initiatives already supported by other service providers. The ARCS budget is generated from payments made against confiscation orders and can vary depending on the outcomes of cases brought forward by law enforcement agencies.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 16 November 2026. Further information and application forms are available on the Department of Justice website.