How can we raise funds for a restoration or reinstatement?
Your Fingerpost may be damaged or just need some TLC – or indeed has been missing for years. Whatever the reason, funding these costs usually means a combination of private funds, grant funding, volunteering and community spirit. Below are some of the options which you may wish to consider.
Volunteering
By volunteering with the work required this reduces the costs along with a faster completion. It also attracts the grants and support of the CPRE - ‘Campaign for the Protection of Rural England’ and the Dorset National Landscape Partnership.
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Dorset National Landscape
The Dorset National Landscape team may provide some materials heavily discounted, particularly for DIY restoration. Contact us for more information by emailing roger@normtec.co.uk
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Local Sponsorship
Fundraising locally within the local area has been a great way to help raise funds for your local fingerpost, or you simply might be a local resident who is determined to see the post restored to its former glory who is happy to contribute towards the restoration. Some parishes have benefited from resident donations or in some cases locals have provided sponsorship, for example £5 per letter. This can encourage local pride within the community.
It's always worth looking into if there are any local businesses in the area that could contribute to the post, as sometimes it can add value to their business too.
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Parish Council
If you are an individual or a local business wanting to restore a post then approach your local parish council that the posts sit in and if they have funds available to support you. You may find together you can pull resources together. Unsure of what parish contact visit Dorset Council.
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CPRE Small Grant Scheme
The CPRE offers a small grants scheme for people wanting to restore fingerposts using the correct materials as set out on this site up to £200 per post. Match funding is not required and there is no application form, but the CPRE asks that requests come from a Parish Council representative, (or similar). You will need a summary of the fingerpost(s) that need repairing, their location(s) and details of payment together with an estimate of the costs which we can, and usually provide.
To find out more contact Linda Williams on info@dorset-cpre.org.uk or Tel: 0333 577 0360.
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Insurance Claim?
Finally, has the post been damaged by an agricultural machine for example during hedge cutting work or a road traffic accident.
If so, identifying the person/company responsible could result in the costs being met either directly via the contractor’s insurance or via Dorset Council who will claim against the offender.