More than 70 community schemes across NI are to benefit from up to £440,000 from the Assets Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS), Justice Minister Naomi Long has announced.

The ARCS budget is derived from confiscation orders made by the courts against convicted criminals.

Making the announcement, Naomi Long said: "The ARCS initiative is a positive way of investing in our people and communities to help reduce crime and the fear of crime by supporting projects for the benefit of victims, communities and the environment.

"The projects supported in this round of funding tackle a wide range of issues, such as domestic abuse, anti-social behaviour reducing reoffending, supporting vulnerable individuals, modern slavery and human trafficking. This money will make a real difference in supporting people who want to work for the good of their community. Collectively, this will help us build a safer community where we respect the law and each other.

"The support available through this scheme is the result of the successful prosecution and convictions of criminals. Recovering the proceeds of crime and reinvesting these funds, including into those communities most acutely impacted by serious organised criminality, sends a powerful message that crime does not pay.

"I commend the work of law enforcement partners in identifying and removing criminal assets. Organised crime can affect individuals, communities and businesses. We can all play a part in tackling this and, as a result, help make our communities safer. I would encourage anyone with any concerns to call the police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."