Community event organisers across the borough can apply to receive funding from the Council in a bid to enliven Hounslow's public spaces this festive season.

The £15,000 fund will be designated to festive events that celebrate the borough's unique town centres and neighbourhoods. The Council is particularly interested in awarding funding to events that will help support local retailers during the upcoming festive season. 

The funding can be used for:  

·        New events or expanding existing events.  

·        Those involving or engaging a wide section of the community.  

Last year, the Council supported a number of events utilising the Welcome Back Fund (ERDF), including festive music in Hounslow and Brentford town centres, an additional Christmas tree in Chiswick, and performers for the Feltham Lantern Parade. This funding has now ended but the Council wants to support more events like this in the lead-up to the festive period 2022 and beyond. 

Individuals, who can provide evidence of local support for their event, can apply for up to £1,000. Charities, community groups, and voluntary organisations, who meet the eligibility criteria, can apply for larger grants of over £1,000. 

The Leader of Hounslow Council, Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, said: "With the cost-of-living crisis upon us, the days getting colder and nights getting darker, it's so important that we help to bring some joy and festivities to the borough by celebrating our vibrant public spaces. We want to work with our hard-working local organisations once again to ensure they have the financial backing to bring their events and performances to life.  

"Community events in our town centres and shopping neighbourhoods can provide a huge boost to the retailers, increasing footfall and reminding residents to Shop Local and support their local businesses.  

"I welcome all organisation who are planning an event this year, or simply have an idea for one, to get in touch and let us help you to celebrate our public spaces and local businesses.  

Feltham Winter Night Lantern Event organiser Charlotte Skinner, Arts Programme Manager Feltham Arts Association, said: "The support we received from the Council was fantastic and the funding allowed us to heighten the performance aspect of the Feltham parade, making this a wholesome experience for local children and the wider community." 

Any organisation in Hounslow with experience in running events in town centres that would like support for an upcoming event please email: [email protected]  

The deadline for applications is midnight, Sunday 6 November 2022.