Money and raffles

Money can get in the way of organising a street party, especially for your first one.

We suggest that you do not ask for money in advance from neighbours as they may be reluctant to give you money if they do not know or trust you yet. This approach may put some people off – if they do not give money now does that mean that they can’t go on the day? You might force them to decide whether they are going or not.

If you are feeling ambitious with activities that cost money you may find it difficult to repeat the event in future as the money raising gets in the way. Just a thought.

So if you do need some money we suggest that you explain in advance how much you need, and for what, and ask for donations on the day. You could also organise a raffle on the day from donations from residents and local businesses. If you’re organising a street party for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee you could give away some jubilee souvenirs as raffle prizes.

Raising money for charities

Street parties can be a good way of raising money for a charity. But be aware that if you give this as the reason for the event some people may not join in as they may not support that charity or may feel under pressure to donate. Best to get them there and ask for donations on the day.

Legality of raffles

You should not need to register a raffle that takes place during your event as long as the tickets are sold and winners announced at the event, and you have not spent more than £100 on organising it, or more than £500 on prizes.

For more information about this and the Gambling Act see: http://www.resourcecentre.org.uk/information/events/info_pdf/Licensing.pdf