Below are answers to a lot of commonly asked questions. Got a question that isn’t answered here? Get in touch at hello@greatgettogether.org
What should a get together look like?
Your get together can look however you want. If you are looking for inspiration, you could get creative with gingham decorations inspired by The Great Get Together branding.
How should I decorate my get together?
In Jo’s constituency of Batley and Spen, we usually use gingham to decorate our Get Together, so we’d love you to also get creative with gingham decorations.
I can't host an event myself - will I be able to see a list of events that I could join?
During the main campaign periods (June and December) we usually share events on this website.
We also share news on social media, keep an eye on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for details on all the wonderful events happening.
You can also look out for details of any local events in your area. Hopefully you’ll see posters or leaflets about things going on.
You could even suggest to a friend or someone that lives locally that they could organise a Get Together! A Get Together doesn’t have to be big or complicated, it can be a few friends in your home, or a picnic in the park.
What happens once I sign up for a Great Get Together kit?
We will be sending occasional tips, news, ideas and reminders by email to those who sign up. We will not be asking for donations.
You can also join our Facebook group which will be regularly updated with more resources, updates and news from other organisers across the country.
Can you help me organise my get together?
We have a series of guides which are full of ideas and recommendations on the different types of get together here.
You can also join our Facebook group which will be regularly updated with more resources, updates and news from other organisers across the country.
If you want help with anything specific, please email us at hello@greatgettogether.org, and we’ll try and help!
How can I connect with other get together organisers?
The best way of connecting with other get together organisers is through our Facebook group.
We hope that hearing about other people’s triumphs and challenges along the way will support and inspire you to throw the best get together possible. You might even make a some new friends along the way.
After all we are so much better when we get together.
Can we fundraise at our get together?
You’re welcome to fundraise for a worthy cause at your Get Together but the most important thing is bringing people together!
Is The Great Get Together party political or about Brexit?
Not at all! The idea for The Great Get Together is about bringing communities together to celebrate what we have in common. It has cross party backing and is supported by some of the most prominent Remain and Brexit campaigners, but it is completely outside of party politics and the Brexit debate.
The official date for The Great Get Together doesn’t suit, can I still take part?
Of course! The most important thing is bringing people together, so if the date doesn’t suit you go ahead and choose another date.
How can I find a get together near me?
During the main campaign periods (June and December), we share events using an interactive map on this website.
We also share news on social media, keep an eye on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for details on all the wonderful events happening.
You can also look out for details of any local events in your area. Hopefully you’ll see posters or leaflets about things going on.
I live outside the UK, can I have a get together?
Yes – of course. The most important thing is bringing people together! You can sign up here to get all the latest information and resources to help you plan your own Get Together.
We're an organisation, can we take part in or support The Great Get Together?
Yes, you can. Find out how here.
How can my school get involved?
Lots of schools are already involved – everything from special assemblies to themed lunches. You can find out more here.
Is there any funding available?
Not from us – sorry. However, some local councils and organisations have funding available. We keep a list here.
You don’t need to spend loads of money to have a great day. If you do need a little bit of money – for decorations or equipment hire, you could ask people to contribute through a traditional ‘whip-round’ or run a small crowdfunding campaign.
It is also always worth speaking to your local council! Some local councils have ‘Communities’ teams which may be interested to know what you’re planning, and in some cases, they may be able to offer you some financial support.
Do I need insurance?
Getting insurance for your event depends on the kind of event you are planning to organise! If you are planning a small event and using a private space then you won’t need to get insurance but if you are planning a bigger event, insurance and carrying out a risk assessment might be necessary. Your local authority will be able to provide you with some advice and an insurance company will be able to provide more information about the costs and types of insurance available to you.
Public Liability Insurance might be required by your council if your event means that you closing down and using any public spaces, as you will be responsible for anything that happens there. This normally covers against any accidental injuries to third parties and volunteers, damages to other people’s property and any legal costs which may arise from any of the above. If your organisation has employees, you may need to take out Employers’ Liability Insurance as well.
In general, for smaller events, common sense will apply to keep everyone safe and happy!
Are barbeques too risky from a health and safety point of view?
Common sense applies. Set up your BBQ somewhere safe and have one chef in charge, not a free for all. It’s also a good idea to have a first aider there on the day.
I'm worried about food hygiene, do we need a license?
Organising small, private street parties and community events should be simple and things like risk assessments, licenses and health and safety certificates are not normally required. In guidance from the Department for Communities and Local Government, the Food Standards Agency has confirmed that one-off events such as street parties aren’t usually considered food businesses, so there are no forms to fill in and you don’t need a food licence.
Everyone involved should take responsibility for themselves and those preparing food should make sure they do so in a clean and hygienic environment. If you are planning a larger event that anyone can attend or if you are selling tickets to your event, then there may be other processes and requirements that you need to consider. Your local council will be able to advise you on this.
What about music?
Guidance from the Department for Communities and Local Government states you can play music without a license at your event as long as amplified music is not one of the main purposes of your event.
How do I engage with the council?
You can contact your local council for support to plan your event. Some local councils have ‘Communities’ teams which may be interested to know what you’re planning and, in some cases, may be able to offer you some financial support.
You can find out what your local council is and what services they provide using this gov.uk website and by entering a postcode (https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council). You can also find them here on this A-Z list of local authorities. If you don’t hear back from your local council, why not try writing to your local elected representative or attending their surgeries? They have a responsibility to reply to their constituents! You can find out who your local representatives are here.
Do I need to close my street?
Not at all! A Get Together doesn’t have to be big or complicated, it can be a few friends in your home, or a picnic in the park!
If you do want to close your road, some extra planning might be needed. Get in touch with your local council as early as possible to find out more information and they will able to guide you what you will need to do.
Should I tell you about my event?
Yes, please! We would love it if you shared with us the details of your event by emailing us on hello@greatgetogether.org
You can connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and once you have made a few plans you can share your story, photos and videos with us using the hashtags #greatgettogether and #moreincommon.