Donations sought

The Live Comedy Association has today launched a major new fund aimed to support the grassroots UK live comedy sector.  

Stand Up And Give is an umbrella campaign to raise money to support comedians, promoters, festivals, venues, clubs and other people working across the UK. 

The fund initially aims to raise £50,000 before Christmas to go towards training, government lobbying and to support projects including those that use laughter and comedy to improve mental health and wellbeing.  

Donations can be made at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/stand-up-give

Jessica Toomey, co-chair of the LCA, said: ‘We have been thrilled with the support we have received over the last couple of years from people working in live comedy who welcome having a membership organisation that represents them.  

‘We have seen some considerable progress, with MPs recognising live comedy as being important and a higher profile of the contribution our sector makes to the UK.  

‘Our economic impact is estimated to be in excess of £1billion each year, but we know we also contribute to positive mental health, vibrant communities, and the development of our artform.

‘Despite all this, we know that live comedy receives no government support and isn’t included as being a part of the creative industries.  With support we can continue to work to change this and get live comedy on the agenda. ‘

‘Stand Up And Give is a new fund which will support all of this and much more.  We have watched in awe what our colleagues in the grassroots live music sector have been doing, and the support they have received from people working in live music as well as fans.  

‘The principle is now clear that people want to give back to emerging musicians and bands, but also festivals, venues and others working in that sector.  Our live comedy fund is starting with an appeal for donations via the crowd funder, but it will grow and will include other donations and fundraising events and activities.

‘It really feels like there is a change happening in live comedy and people are understanding the importance of it, and also the need for us all to support one another, and build our community, to ensure the future of what we do.’

The LCA previously organised a crowd funder in 2021 and raised almost £80,000 to support people affected by the pandemic.  Since that time the organisation has

• Conducted the first-ever UK live comedy sector survey, in partnership with the Centre for Comedy Studies Research at Brunel University
• Lobbied the Department of Culture Media and Sport select committee and spoke at an evidence session in Parliament
• Delivered online workshops on funding and hosted regular member meetings

Published: 25 Sep 2025