The High Sheriff Awards Scheme complements the work of the High Sheriff, an unpaid, voluntary role appointed by Her Majesty The Queen, which today concentrates on upholding and supporting the judiciary, police and law enforcement agencies, emergency services, local authorities and all recognised church and faith groups as well as supporting and encouraging the voluntary sector. The role itself is over 1000 years old from the days when the High Sheriff was responsible for all law and order in the County, it is the oldest secular appointment in the country.

It is an apolitical role, undertaken on a voluntary basis, at no cost to the public purse and so is well suited to lending support and encouragement to charities, community groups and voluntary services.

The fund aims to work with voluntary bodies and community groups in Merseyside to support community safety, crime prevention and security initiatives in their locality.