Windrush Day - Small Grants

To Celebrate Windrush Day, we are offering small grants of up to £750 to support people, living or working in Lewisham, to develop their own activities and events in their local community to celebrate around the theme of Legacy.

The HMT Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury Docks on 21 June 1948. The ship carried passengers from the Caribbean who disembarked the following day. It is a moment that helped define modern Britain and became known as Windrush Day. 

On Sunday 22 June 2025 we mark its 77th anniversary. 

Lewisham is home to many residents from, and descendants of, the Windrush generation. Following last year's lively celebrations, we're gearing up to mark Windrush Day again. It's time to celebrate their vast contributions to our culture and reflect on the enduring legacy of Windrush.

Take inspiration from last year’s events or some of the ideas below:

  • Organise a street party and encourage people to come together as a community.
  • A community event such as a meal with a cultural activity
  • Intergenerational event bringing older and younger people from the community together.
  • Storytelling event
  • Exhibition with photographs or oral history contributions Cultural activity – music, arts or crafts
  • Gardening activity
  • Podcast, social media event / campaign

If you have any questions about the requirements or anything else related to your application, please email cultural.grants@lewisham.gov.uk  

Applications close 11.59pm on Sunday 11 May 2025