Branch Development Fund FAQs

Q: Is there a deadline to apply for?

A: No - applications are open all year round, but the sooner you apply the better!

Q: How do you decide which bids to grant?

A: Any bids will be reviewed by YL exec members Finn Conway, Nate Isaacson, and Callum James Littlemore. Then, in consultation with the co-chairs, Thomas Gravatt and Hannah Ashworth, we'll decide which bids to grant.

Bids that achieve the following will be given priority:

Membership recruitment - e.g a campaign that will draw in other students and young people to the Liberal Democrats.
Membership retention - e.g a social or a talk from a guest speaker that will keep members involved.
Membership development - e.g a training event that will help members increase their confidence in public speaking, their ability to create graphics, or any other skill they might want to have.

Q: Is there anything you won't fund?

A: Yes - frivolous trips to Brussels, while encouraged, will not be funded by the BDF.

Q: Can I apply if I'm not a member of a Young Liberals Branch?

A: Yes, absolutely! If you are:

A local party hoping to kickstart a Young Liberals presence in your area.
A group of young people hoping to start a Young Liberals branch together.
A party member or a party body hoping to organise a one-off event or project for young people or students.

Q: What if you don't like my bid?

A: If there are any issues, we'll always get in touch rather than just ignore you - if you have any questions about refining your plan, feel free to email the Finance Officer at [email protected]

Q: How soon can we get the money?

A: Before we give out any money, we need to see receipts, an update on the event, and bank details for your society account/an individual so we can make the payment. We don't have to see original receipts; emailed copies will do just fine. We'll get this payment to you as soon as possible once we have all this information.

Q: I still have questions!

A: Feel free to get in touch with the Finance Officer at [email protected] if there are still any questions unanswered by this comprehensive FAQ!