When it comes to delivering activities, the old mantra of “if you don’t ask you don’t get” can work. Regarding refreshments, if you have hired a venue, some venues will give you a reduced cost as you are a charity. Additionally, supermarkets have been known to donate to charities for tea, coffee and biscuits.
Local branches of the big 4 in Medway:
Tesco – Rainham - 0345 677 9300
Asda – Chatham - 01634 666112
Morrisons – Strood - 01634 714873
Sainsburys – Hempstead Valley - 01634 648550
If you are having an outing, where you need to purchase refreshments, there are always tips and tricks, the link is a great reference guide.
Venue Hire Costs
When it comes to delivering activities, the old mantra of “if you don’t ask you don’t get” can work. Regarding venue hire, just ask if you can host an event for free or at a reduced cost just by asking (remember it looks good to the venue as they can say they host charities for free!).
This link has tips on reducing costs, link is a free service for charities to find locations around the UK, including Medway and this link has a list of all halls that can be booked in Medway, some are free and others provide a discount to charities.
Training Costs
The internet is full of free training resources, this link or this link can help you search for the area of training you are looking after.
If you are looking to hire a trainer, remember the mantra of “if you don’t ask, you don’t get” – so it may be worth asking whether they can offer you a discount.