Thursday 01-11-2018 - 14:13

There’s still funding available for Project Cheshire.

Shannon and Lucie (who you might still see around campus) shared their stories when it comes to popping in a bid and running an event on campus.

 

Shannon

It was my last few weeks as a student, and I wanted to leave on a high, so I ran a festival themed fun day on Campus called ‘Crewe-chella.’ Before applying online, I went and got advice from the opportunities team and they were helpful and gave me guidance. The online application was simple to navigate and fill in and I didn’t do it all alone — I asked the residential advisors if they would help and they were keen to get involved. Once my bid was approved I began purchasing decorations, booking inflatables, and booking an ice-cream van. On the day, I was super nervous and I wanted everything to go smoothly, which it did. It was a great day and everyone enjoyed it, especially the free ice-creams! I learnt a lot about event management — in particular budgeting (which will probably be quite useful at some point!)

My top tips:

1. Get your friends involved to help you! Whether it’s friends from your club/society or some course friends. Everything is made easier with a good support network to help you set up an event (and pack it away at the end!)

2. Seek advice before applying. The Union were super helpful, especially when it came to things like filling out a purchase order form and completing a risk assessment.

3. Get applying now! My biggest regret was not doing it sooner!

4. Advertise it well to ensure a good turnout on the day. Again, don't be afraid to ask for help.

5. Don’t forget about the small details. If you need posters putting up, include the blue-tack in your bid to ensure you won’t be out of pocket!

6. Don’t stress – it’s easy really. 

 

Lucie

A major issue when trying to plan any events has to be finance! How much will it all cost?! Project Cheshire could not have been a more perfect solution. It has made events that were going to being nearly impossible, possible! I have organised events, alongside my committee, where we have used funds to help with prizes, props, and general running of things! What better way to get everyone excited than a first prize £60 Nando’s voucher?! It has also meant that charity events could be bigger and better, and we've raised high amounts of money for worthy causes. The application process is an online (easy) process and it’s like pitching an idea in less than 8 answer boxes (one of those being your name!)

The opportunities team and Andy are always happy to help with any questions and queries along the way, and guide you to making the perfect application! The whole process gives you experience in organising events, and even networking with companies to ask if they can get involved! One of our events was Bubble football — 8 teams, the 3G pitch, and people running at each other at full pelt in giant balls (with some football being involved). All we had to do was get a quote from the company, fill in the application and Project Cheshire handled the rest. It was loads of fun, everyone got involved and something that had never been done in Cheshire before! Alongside the sport, we had a tombola, guess the name of the teddy and an awards ceremony at the end for funny or skilled players!

Few words of advice:

- This is a brilliant opportunity, so please do utilise it!

- Plan an event and get your application in early! The committee only have meetings to authorise applications occasionally so find out when they are so you don’t miss out!

I can't wait to see some incredible events on campus, and ensure Cheshire goes out with a BANG!

 

Get started on your application.

Got any questions or need some help? Drop an email to s.u.crewe@mmu.ac.uk