Fareham Borough Council has awarded ACT Self Defence £4,320 from its Community Fund, to support renovations to its premises at 95 West Street.

ACT Self Defence is a community-focused organisation delivering self-defence training and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) awareness seminars to local residents. Its work aims to improve personal safety, confidence, and wellbeing, particularly for women, girls, and other vulnerable groups.

ACT Self Defence works closely with community members, local organisations, and frontline professionals and expects to support approximately 200 participants each year. It also works in partnership with the Police Crime Commissioner on ‘Empower them’, a project designed to support young people experiencing challenges who may benefit from positive role modelling and opportunities to channel their energy in a more constructive way.

This funding will enable ACT Self Defence to complete minor renovations to its premises at 95 West Street. The proposed improvements will enhance the safety, accessibility, and functionality of the space, ensuring it is fit for purpose and welcoming for all participants – including those who may have experienced trauma and require a safe, comfortable environment.

Executive Member for Leisure and Community at Fareham Borough Council, Cllr Connie Hockley, said: “Violence Against Women and Girls is absolutely unacceptable in our society. While I wish there was no need for this type of organisation at all, I fully support ACT Self Defence’s mission to provide accessible, practical education that helps people recognise risk, build resilience, and feel safer in their daily lives. This funding will help them to deliver these vital services in a fit for purpose premises and help to protect Fareham’s more vulnerable residents.”

For more information about Fareham’s Community Fund and how to apply, please visit: www.fareham.gov.uk/grants.