As part of Richmond Council’s ongoing commitment to being a Borough of Sanctuary, small grants are being offered to help local groups and organisations host activities during Refugee Week (16-22 June).
Refugee Week is a UK-wide celebration recognising the contributions and resilience of those seeking sanctuary.
The grant awards of up to £2,000 are designed to empower initiatives that promote understanding, inclusion and support of sanctuary seekers, in line with this year’s theme of “Community as a Superpower”. The voluntary and community sector is recognised as playing a key role in helping to deliver this welcoming environment for those building new lives in the borough.
Proposals which are collaborative and centred on the voices and experiences of sanctuary seekers are encouraged.
Events that promote the contributions of sanctuary seekers and provide a platform for the voice of refugee groups and individuals will be prioritised.
They must be open to sanctuary seekers or promote the stories of sanctuary seekers. One of the factors which will be considered is whether the event is open to a wide audience – including sanctuary seekers beyond your own service users, as well as members of the wider community.
Examples of what the funding can be used for includes:
- venue hire or rent
- performers or artist fees
- equipment or materials for workshops or exhibitions
- volunteer expenses and staff costs
- catering and refreshments
- promotion and publicity
- transport or accessibility-related costs.
Activities organised by schools, individuals or informal groups of residents are not eligible. Only constituted voluntary and community groups are eligible to apply.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and awarded on a first come, first served basis, until the funding is allocated. Early application is, therefore, advised.
Award decisions will be made by a panel of Council Officers and representatives from the Richmond Sanctuary Partnership, including members with lived experience.
For questions and guidance on the application process, email boroughofsanctuary@richmond.gov.uk.
See the full details and apply at the Richmond Council Borough of Sanctuary webpage here.
