News releases

New grant scheme to help communities celebrate the Coronation

 
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has launched the King’s Coronation Fund, a new grant scheme to encourage community and voluntary groups and businesses across the borough to host events.
 
The Coronation weekend, including an additional bank holiday, will take place from Saturday 6 May to Monday 8 May 2023 and will provide an opportunity for communities across the United Kingdom to come together to celebrate the historic event.
 
As part of the new scheme, community organisations will be eligible for grants of up to £500 for single applications and up to £1,000 for joint applications from two or more organisations for events taking place in communities across the borough. Joint applications need to show how organisations will work together to bring Coronation events to communities.
 
Businesses will also be eligible for grants of up to £1,000 for applications which bring together three or more businesses to enable an events programme. Applicants will need to demonstrate that the funding will be used to deliver activities to benefit the high street or town or village centres and not just the businesses applying.
 
Grants can be used to buy new or additional equipment, to cover the costs of hiring equipment, for entertainment, performances and artists costs and to cover the costs of insurance, event signs and promotion.
 
The scheme is now open and the deadline for applications is Friday 31 March 2023. Grants will be available for events and activities that will be delivered between May and June 2023 and will be provided on a first come, first served basis.
 
To support communities to host events of their own, the council has updated guidance for how to put on events including street parties, information on responsibilities and advice on how to organise events safely.
 
The council works with Basingstoke Voluntary Action to offer a training programme on how to deliver community events safely. Community organisations can book a place by calling 01256 423816 or emailing contact@bvaction.org.uk.
 
Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane Cllr Paul Miller said: “The Coronation provides a fantastic opportunity to bring communities and businesses across the borough together to come together in a spirit of friendship and celebration.
 
“We would encourage community associations and groups, parishes and businesses to apply to this scheme as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Please get in touch with us if you need any guidance and support when planning your events.”
 
For more information about the grant scheme, visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/coronation-fund and to find out more about what you need to host a community event, read the council’s street party guidance at www.basingstoke.gov.uk/event-supporting-guidance.