There could well be some criticism of the plan to pay individuals or groups up to £500 in grants to fund community-based projects aimed at reducing crime and the fear of crime in Bradford North. It might seem, on the face of it, to be something which should already be covered by Neighbourhood Watch.

In addition, given the concerns already expressed that the proposed police shake-up in the Bradford district might lead to fewer officers on the beat, some people will suggest that if there is money to spare in the crime-fighting pot, it would be better spent on the force itself.

However, as most crime springs from the grass roots of the community, it is important that people are encouraged to take responsibility for things that happen in their own area. This scheme, proposed in the Local Action Plan by the Bradford North Anti-Crime Partnership, could in fact lead to a total of £5,000 being well spent in the next financial year.

Figures published this week have shown a fall in some types of crime. Various reasons have been put forward for this, among them improved alarm and lighting systems, better domestic security measures and greater public awareness and watchfulness. These are all areas in which improvements could be made via plans put forward under this project.

Crime is often a local problem. The sense of community involvement this scheme could encourage has the potential to produce some local solutions. It could also allow the people who fear crime a chance to feel that they are doing something positive to defeat it.