A NORTHUMBRIA Police project aimed at helping community groups in Gateshead is handing out more than £15,000 to 12 different groups.

Westhelp was set up in 2000 for a three-year period to help community projects within the Gateshead West area command and has already handed out £100,000 to local groups.

The fund, which has attracted donations from three charitable foundations, aims to reduce crime and disorder, as well as the fear of crime, and to increase community confidence and safety.

Awards can be given to community and residents' associations and groups involving elderly, housebound and young people.

PC Alan Kinghorn, community beat manager for Chopwell and High Spen who helps run the project, said: "This project is the only one of its kind not only in the North-East, but the rest of the country. It is helping to build safer communities and improve neighbourhood confidence and reduce crime and disorder."

The fund has helped groups buy items ranging from bingo machines to van trailers and has also funded the employment of outreach and youth workers.

Groups to have been awarded grants:

* Sunniside and District Youth Association - awarded £2,230 to buy mixing decks and other equipment identified as essential for running the club

* Broomfield Community Centre, Chopwell - awarded £370 for a bingo machine

* North East Court, sheltered accommodation, Dunston - awarded £235 to buy indoor bowls equipment

* Gateshead Crossroads - awarded £1,100 to provide transport for young carers to attend educational and recreational group activities in the area

* Birtley Community Centre - awarded £2,775 to provide outreach workers and sports equipment, as well as arts and crafts materials

* Birtley Youth Centre - awarded £1,660 for equipment and tuition in music, art and bike maintenance.

* Winlaton Centre Senior Youth Club - awarded £1,245 to buy a trailer for transporting camping, sports and other outdoor pursuit equipment

* Lobley Hill Youth Community Centre - awarded £1,450 to provide a three-week summer holiday programme, including centre-based activities and leisure trips

* Birtley Young People's Club - awarded £1,200 for activities over the summer holidays including an accredited fitness course with a nationally recognised certificate

* Whickham Community Centre - awarded £1,085 to buy equipment and materials for a new youth club

* Birtley St Joseph's Juniors - awarded £1,300 for sports equipment

* Kibblesworth Nature Club - awarded £1,599 to fund a number of nature and environmental activities during the summer holidays