If you’re organising a charity event, school fair, or community fundraiser, you’re probably trying to keep costs as low as possible. It’s completely understandable—every pound saved can go toward your cause.

 

But one common approach often backfires: asking small, self-employed entertainers to volunteer their services.

 

Let’s talk about why—and more importantly, what you should do instead.

 

The Reality for Small Entertainment Businesses

Many entertainers—face painters, balloon artists, performers—are self-employed, often running one-person businesses. That means:

  • Their income depends entirely on bookings
  • They don’t have paid holidays, sick pay, or backup income
  • Every booking slot matters

Children’s entertainment is also highly time-restricted. Work is concentrated almost entirely in:

  • Weekends
  • School holidays
  • Peak celebration periods (like Halloween and Christmas)

So when you ask a small business to work for free on a Saturday, you’re not just asking for a favour—you’re effectively asking them to give up a significant portion of their weekly income.

 

For many, that’s simply not financially possible.

 

A Helpful Way to Think About It

Imagine asking an office worker to donate half of their weekly salary to your event.

 

That’s the equivalent of what you’re asking when requesting unpaid weekend work from a children’s entertainer.

 

It’s not about unwillingness—it’s about sustainability.

 

A Better Approach: Seek Sponsorship Instead

Rather than relying on individuals, your best option is to secure sponsorship from larger organisations. Many companies actively want to support community initiatives and have budgets specifically for this.

 

This approach benefits everyone:

  • Your event gets proper funding
  • You can hire professionals (ensuring quality and reliability)
  • Businesses gain positive community exposure

 

Where to Look for Sponsorship

Here are some great places to start:

 

🛒 Supermarkets & Retail Chains

Large retailers often have community funding schemes or local store budgets:

  • Tesco – e.g. community grants and “Stronger Starts” initiatives
  • Sainsbury's – local charity partnerships
  • Asda – community champions in stores
  • Morrisons – local community support

Tip: Speak directly to the store manager or community lead—they often have discretion over small budgets.

 

🏢 Large Corporations with Community Budgets

Many major companies invest in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

  • Barclays
  • HSBC
  • BT Group
  • National Grid

These organisations may offer:

  • Direct funding
  • Employee volunteer days
  • Event sponsorship

 

🏬 Local Businesses

Don’t overlook smaller (but still established) local businesses:

  • Estate agents
  • Gyms
  • Restaurants and cafés
  • Soft play centres

They may not have huge budgets, but they often:

  • Sponsor in exchange for advertising
  • Donate raffle prizes
  • Contribute smaller amounts that add up

 

🎟️ Event & Funding Platforms

There are also useful platforms and guides that can help:

 

What to Offer Sponsors

When approaching a company, make it easy for them to say yes by offering value:

  • Logo placement on posters and banners
  • Social media shoutouts
  • Mentions during the event
  • Free stall space or promotion

Think of it as a partnership, not a donation request.

 

Once You Have a Budget…

When you’ve secured funding, you’ll be in a much stronger position to book entertainment.

This ensures:

  • A reliable, professional service
  • Happy children (and parents!)
  • A smoother, more successful event overall

 

Final Thoughts

Charity events are incredibly important, and the work you’re doing matters.

But supporting your cause shouldn’t come at the expense of other small businesses trying to survive.

By shifting your focus to sponsorship and funding, you create a win-win situation—for your event, your sponsors, and the professionals who help bring it to life.