Bookings business makes donation to community fund

We Love Lichfield has received a significant donation from Lichfield’s award-winning TV, film and media accommodation booking specialists Access Bookings.

The Cross Keys-based business presented We Love Lichfield patron Simon Price with £2,000 after being inspired by how the place-based community fund is making a difference across the district.

James Austin from Access Bookings said: “Our business takes us across the world but our heart is very much in Lichfield. We have seen the fantastic work of We Love Lichfield and wanted to support them. 

"As a family-owned business of nearly 40 years we know how difficult it is to innovate and remain relevant. Not only are they raising funds for now, they are creating a lasting legacy too.

"Their model will enable Lichfield, Burntwood and the surrounding villages to have support for generations to come."

Every year, We Love Lichfield hosts a grant giveaway event.

As well as handing out the grants, it is also an opportunity for the local voluntary to meet up and network, and most importantly showcase their work. 

James said: “For me, their grant giveaway was everything that is special about the area. Access Bookings were event guests and were impressed how We Love Lichfield created a forum for the local voluntary sector to celebrate their work, but also network, meet others to discuss issues and exchange ideas of best practice. It was truly inspiring and we decided there and then we wanted to support.”

Simon Price, patron of We Love Lichfield, said: “A huge thank you to Access Bookings. The story of their support makes all the hard work worthwhile.

"Yes we want to raise funds for the local voluntary sector, but we also want to be a platform for the local voluntary sector and community to grow.

“The support of local businesses is vital and we welcome anyone to contact us to see how they can help.”

Since starting over a decade ago, We Love Lichfield has given away just over £420,000 in 428 grants to 228 organisations. 

We Love Lichfield is one of the Community Foundation For Staffordshire and Shropshire’s place-based funds. 

It provides grants to a wide range of projects operating across the district of Lichfield.

The fund considers applications from local groups in need twice a year.

It raises money and then the returns are given away. Companies and individuals make up the bulk of the donors to the fund, either through direct donations, or by fundraising. 

All the money raised is invested through an endowment fund in line with charity commission guidelines.

The financial return from the fund is then distributed as small grants across the area.

It will provide a source of sustainable funding that can be used for grants long in to the future. 

Individuals and businesses can raise money for We Love Lichfield.  

We Love Lichfield is supported by various local businesses including Arthur Price, Townhouse Communications, Richard Winterton Auctioneers, Straightforward and David Lloyd Lichfield.

Pictured: Simon Price (left) receiving a cheque for £2,000 from Amanda Watson and James Austin of Access Bookings