Organise a local function to raise funds for our work

We are pleased to offer guidance and support to anyone who may want to organise a local fundraising event to generate money to help us

Make it great fun - people will always give more if they are having a great time. In case you need something to spark your imagination, we can suggest some ideas. But whatever you decide for your local fundraiser, maybe the following suggestions might help you?

Your good idea

Maybe check out your idea by first talking it through with some friends to get their views and maybe ignite their enthusiasm to help. Before you make any commitment it’s worth researching your idea and ensuring that you have access to all the resources that you’ll need to make your event successful.

Pick a good time

Check out what else is happening in your local area by scanning your local paper and investigating notice boards. Depending on your audience, avoid clashing with major national events or sports on TV, otherwise you’ll struggle to get folks along!

Spread the load

Why not involve other people and get them to help run your event? Planning things together may help keep the team informed and motivated. Allocating tasks is a great way to make the most of individual talents, and sharing a written task list amongst all the team members helps everyone to know who is doing what.

Getting people to attend

Understand who might want to take part in your event. You can then aim your publicity to get them to come. Consider the minimum number of people you’ll need to attend to make your event viable – both financially and from an organisation point of view. It‘s also really important to have an idea of the maximum number of people that you can manage to serve and control.

Do understand the finances

You‘ll want to minimise your costs and maximise your donations, so try to get as much as you can for free – whether it’s people’s time, a venue, publicity, printing, sponsorship or prizes. In return you might need to offer free tickets, acknowledge a business on the day or mention them in publicity material. You can increase your income by selling space for advertising in your leaflet or flyers, getting sponsors for a particular element and by holding a raffle.

Have a back-up plan

In case things go wrong it’s worth having worked out a back up plan beforehand.

E.g. If your event is being held in open air, what you’ll do if it’s bad weather.

Get all required permissions

It is the responsibility of organisers to ensure compliance with legal and safety standards. Your local authority can help with advice about specific licences you may need.

Please let us know what you are doing.

Our central Events Team will be delighted to know what you are planning to do and can assist you. Please email us.