Craven Events

Most funders want to see that an organisation is trying to raise some of its funds by its own efforts, no matter how small a percentage of the total income this provides.

Organising a fundraising event is still one of the best ways of funding voluntary activity and can help to raise awareness about your organisation and its work. You could also consider charging for the services you provide to bring in additional funds.

It is important to get as many different sources of income as possible, so that you are not relying on any one source, which would leave you in a very vulnerable position when that source comes to an end.

So DIY fund-raising gives you credibility with funders. It may also:

• give you credibility within your community
• give you additional publicity
• help members of the group to feel part of something, to feel that they are doing something about a problem and they will gain skills and confidence in themselves.

There are lots of things you can do: dances, discos, fêtes, fairs, jumble sales, fashion shows, coffee mornings, safari suppers, auctions, treasure hunts, car boot sales, charity shops, flag days, raffles, bingo, house to house collections, waste collection. See the ideas section for more.

The Law

Most of the things above can be done without special permission. There are some exceptions and you should check with your local council or events officer.

For some it may also be necessary for your group to be a registered charity.

Things to consider

• Who are you trying to get money from?
• Is it always the same people?
• Is it the people who can least afford it?
• Can you alter this?
• What else is happening in the area?
• How many people can you count on for help?
• What do you need to do in advance?
• How much will this cost?
• How will you publicise it?
• How much will the publicity or advertising cost?
• What will you do if it rains/ snows/ there's a power cut?
• Do you need to take out some insurance?
• Or extra insurance?
• How much, in total, will it cost to run?
• How much, realistically, can you expect to make?
• Is it the kind of activity that will go with the image of the group?
• Is it worth the time and effort?
• Will it be fun?
• Do you have any contact with any organisations or companies who operate Employee Support Schemes?
• Do any other members of the group have any contacts?