Shambala Festival offers a living cost fund for tickets

A festival in Northampton has opened registrations to help people on lower incomes attend the event.

Shambala, a four-day music festival held at Kelmarsh Hall, but with strong links to Bristol, often sees sell-out crowds of up to 15,000.

The Pay It Forward: Share The Love program allows people to apply for a fully funded ticket, including free accommodation, food and drinks.

This is made possible thanks to a £25,000 fund raised since its launch in 2022, including contributions from visitors, crews and artists.

Initially launched to help local organizations and care leavers, the festival said the cost of living crisis means there is a greater need to expand its offering.

People receiving benefits such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance will now be able to apply for the fund, with half of the money earmarked for those in Leicestershire and Northamptonshire.

People who successfully register will receive money for food and drinks, camping equipment and travel assistance in addition to a festival ticket.

Becka Whiteley, a spokesperson for Shambala Festival, said: “Festivals aren’t cheap – especially those on weekends.

“They are not cheap to produce and not cheap to attend. It is not as simple as offering tickets at low prices to people on low incomes. Saving for a festival ticket will never be a priority if you spend your money can’t pay.” rent food at home or put it on the table.

“And it’s not just the tickets – there’s also the travel, camping equipment, food and drinks. It all adds up!

“That’s why our Pay It Forward entry packages cover the whole package: the festival tickets, food and drinks while you’re with us, a tent and camping equipment to stay in and even your journey there and back.”

This year’s event will take place between August 22 and 25 and will feature Sampa The Great, Bob Vylan and The Congos, with more acts to be announced.