Co-op and Community Finance is proud to work with The Centre for Democratic Business on understanding the role and future of Britain’s Social Clubs, and helping to support the path to revival for these vital community spaces.
We are pleased to share the findings of their survey, below, and support the call for targeted financial support, progressive government policies and comprehensive training and resources to strengthen governance and business development.
Key Findings from the National Survey
Our national survey, aimed at understanding the current state and support requirements of social clubs, paints a complex picture:
- 83% describe their financial health as poor to fair, reflecting widespread financial strain.
- 35% of clubs have already borrowed money, with 73% indicating they may need to borrow or raise funds in the next three years.
- A staggering 96% expressed a need for fundraising support, while 75% called for assistance in diversifying business models.
- 77% report difficulty recruiting committee members, and 65% would benefit from training on committee duties.
- Membership trends are mixed, with 43% seeing growth, 38% experiencing decline, and 19% remaining stable. 77% of clubs say they would benefit from support to attract new members.
- 20% of clubs have changed their legal form in the last few years, and 19% are currently considering changing their legal form.
- Nearly 70% of clubs have not received any external support on business planning, applying for government benefits, or fundraising.
Challenges and Opportunities
These findings highlight the fragility of Britain’s social clubs. Financial struggles, lack of access to specialist advice, and difficulties in recruiting members and committee leaders present significant challenges. Yet, the survey also tells a story of resilience and optimism.
For instance, some clubs are embarking on ambitious building projects to modernise their facilities or develop new revenue streams, such as creating affordable housing provision. Others are expanding their community roles, offering social lifelines for elderly members, welcoming families, and attracting diverse demographics. Generally, Britain’s social clubs are increasingly aware of their importance as community centres, theatres, and music venues.
Calls for Action
The Centre for Democratic Business is using the results from this survey to create a national conversation about the future of social clubs. The findings underscore the need for:
- Targeted financial support to enable the modernisation of club buildings.
- Progressive government policies to lower operating costs for the sector.
- Comprehensive training and resources to strengthen governance and business development.
Kirsty McNeill, MP for Midlothian, has already voiced support, calling for a ‘21st Century Clubs’ Charter’ to address these challenges. Similarly, the UK Co-operative Growth Strategy and the Co-operative Party have recognised the need for action to prevent closures and revitalise clubs across the nation’s constituencies.
A Path to Revival
Despite decades of decline, new social and economic currents suggest a potential resurgence for the ‘club model.’ The Centre for Democratic Business hopes this national survey will inspire a wave of support to help Britain’s social clubs reclaim their place at the heart of their communities.
Read more on the Centre for Democratic Business website
