Local community invited to apply for funding for Windrush Day celebrations

17 April 2023

Southwark Council has launched a grants programme to fund community events to commemorate 75 years since the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush at Tilbury Docks in 1948.

The Windrush 75 Commemoration Fund is available to local organisations, including community groups, charities, and schools, who are planning events that honour the legacy and contributions of the Windrush generation and Commonwealth communities who emigrated to the borough during the post-war period.

One-off payments of up to £2,499 are available to support the planning and delivery of community fun days, street parties, educational workshops, history exhibitions, or music and theatre performances place from 1 June–30 September 2023, with a focus on events occurring on or around Windrush Day, 22 June 2023.

All submissions must be received by Sunday 7 May 2023.

Events funded by the programme must demonstrate the following:

• Celebrate and recognise the contribution of the Windrush generation;
• Educate people about the Windrush story;
• Foster a greater sense of pride and recognition towards the contributions made by migrant communities;
• Be community-led and have a positive impact;
• Inspire future generations;
• Celebrate the diversity and history of the Southwark;
• Support those impacted by the Windrush scandal.

The influence of Southwark’s rich mix of migrants from across the world has played an integral role in shaping the borough’s cultural identity from the array of local culinary options to dynamic theatre performances. Recognising the ongoing challenges faced by minorities, the council committed to Southwark Stands Together, a long-term borough-wide initiative to take action against prevalent racism and injustice.

Cllr Catherine Rose, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks, Streets and Clean Air, said: "The whole council is proud to launch this grants programme, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Windrush arrival in the UK. This is a vitally important time to honour the invaluable contributions of our Caribbean communities in Southwark, alongside all Commonwealth and other dual heritage populations, from many nations across the globe, that have given so much to our borough and are key to shaping our shared future.

“This initiative recognises the cultural richness and diversity of our community and provides a platform for local organisations to showcase their talents and creativity while promoting inclusivity and equality".

“We acknowledge the ongoing issues faced by all our Black, Asian, Latin American and global majority communities, but through this programme and our Southwark Stands Together pledges, we are demonstrating our commitment to champion, support and build a borough that uplifts and values every resident, every day.

We encourage all local organisations to submit their applications and bring to life events that showcase the vibrancy and diversity of our borough and celebrate the legacy of the Windrush generation."

The grants are available for events organised by all migrant Commonwealth communities.

Information on eligibility criteria and how to apply can be found on the council’s website.

Page last updated: 17 April 2023