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Planning and organising an event

11 easy steps to organising a fantastic fundraising event:

  1. Keep it simple.

  2. Ask.

    Ask friends and colleagues to help. It really is much more fun if you share the load and what's more, you get the benefit of lots of different ideas and experience!

  3. Speak to us!

    Don't forget to let us know about your event. We love hearing about your fundraising and may even be able to help out! You can contact the Community Fundraising Team by calling 020 7025 2473 or by emailing community@breakthrough.org.uk

  4. Be organised.

    Have a clear plan from the very beginning and be sure to check that the date of your event doesn't clash with other events, like the World Cup Final, Grand National or school holidays!

  5. Draw up a budget.

    Try to calculate any expenses well in advance and work out ways to cut costs, from getting sponsorship for your event, to persuading companies to provide gifts or services at a reduced rate. Breakthrough always aims to spend no more than 25% of the expected income, so if you think your event will raise £100, try to spend no more than £25 organising it.

  6. Seek Permission.

    Seek permission and check legal requirements. Make sure you find out whether you require any special licenses or permissions. This particularly applies if you are planning to organise a raffle or street collection for Breakthrough. Take a look at our Raffles factsheet (313 kb) [doc] or contact your local council to find out more.

  7. Be safe.

    As the event organiser you must be careful to ensure the safety of your guests. Not only are you required to comply with Health and Safety legislation but you may also need to consider First Aid and Fire Safety requirements. Your local council will be able to provide you with full details, or, alternatively, you can contact the Health and Safety Executive on 08701 545500 for free advice.

  8. Insurance.

    Consider arranging appropriate insurance, for example public liability, for the event. Be sure to check with the venue as they may well already be covered.

  9. Publicise your event.

    Don't forget to promote the event in your local area. You could put up posters, hand out flyers and even get your local papers and radio stations involved. Download a copy of our Publicising Your Event (300 kb) [doc] factsheet for information on how to write a press release and promote your event effectively.

  10. Thank everyone involved.

    After the event, don't forget to thank everyone involved. Who knows you might need their help at your next event! We can even provide you with information leaflets about Breakthrough to send out with your thank you notes and help fire them with enthusiasm!

  11. Last but not least, have fun!





For further information

Community Fundraising Team
community@breakthrough.org.uk
Tel: 020 7025 2473

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