You can use stalls to:
recruit new members
get people to sign your petition
educate people on your housing issue
tell people about your upcoming event demonstration
Your stall’s location
Think about who your stall is for. If you are trying to reach your local community, position your stall somewhere locally. If you’re trying to get as many people as possible to sign a petition, you might want to think about a city centre stall where there is higher footfall.
Try to see if there are any local events that would be suitable for your stall. For example, local galas, community events or festival days. Ask event organisers if you can have a stall.
Make sure it is not in the way. Make sure wheelchair users can access and move around your stall, and that you are not blocking fire exits or doorways.
Check if you need permission
There are some places you can set up a stall without permission, such as a city centre high street, but in some places you will likely need permission. For example, if you are wanting to hold a stall on private property, like in a shopping or community centre, you will likely need permission.
Top tip! Ask someone in your group to take responsibility for checking if you need permission and getting the necessary permission to hold your stall.
Make it noticeable
Stalls are the most effective when you have something visual to attract attention. It can be useful to have:
a banner
flyers with more information for people to take away
a tablecloth
freebies for people to take away (for example, badges, stickers or pens)
Your local community organiser can help with designing and printing resources.
Email housingrightsdefenders@shelter.org.uk to be connected with your local organiser.
Think back to what you’ve liked about other stalls and see what you can replicate.
Some examples of more creative ideas:
have a game people can play linked to your housing issues
create a selfie board for people to take photos with and share on social media
Top tip! Try to keep your stall table tidy. A messy table can make it difficult for people to see what you are doing.
Communicate the key messages
It’s important to ensure that everyone who is helping to run the stall can talk about your key messages. Write a list of your key messages and make sure everyone helping at the stall has a copy of them and is comfortable talking about them.
And remember why you are holding the stall. Make it easy for people coming over to take the necessary action, whether that is:
sign a petition
become a member
come to your event or demonstration