News & Commentary

News & Commentary

January 2025

January 2025

New National Survey Highlights Urgent Need and Optimistic Future for Britain’s Social Clubs

Press Release

Press Release

  • Social clubs have diminished by half since their peak in the 1970s.

  • They are mutual, member-managed assets vital to community power and cohesion.

  • Unlike private ‘third spaces’, social clubs provide non-transactional community spaces.

  • There’s an urgent need to save and revitalise social clubs and put them at the heart of efforts to revive civil society.

There is no shortage of reports on the alarming decline of the nation’s social infrastructure, particularly the closure of community and youth centres, the collapse in the number of cultural venues, and the rising dominance of privately owned ‘third spaces’ in local communities. 

However, an overlooked aspect of this trend is the recent decline of Britain’s social clubs, a wide range of community assets that are under mutual ownership and managed by local members. Once numbering more than 4,000 at their peak in the 1970s, roughly half remain today, many of which are struggling to survive in historically disadvantaged and still economically neglected areas.

Although social clubs are a strange omission from current discussions about the future of civic infrastructure and calls for increased investment into third spaces, they have proven to be an effective model for creating community power and cohesion in the gap left by reduced public funding and the transactional approach of the private sector.

Recognising their ability to not only revive civil society but also place mutual values at the core of this recovery, the Centre for Democratic Business has been collaborating with organisations and individuals focused on the future of Britain's social clubs. Representing thousands of community assets, a new national survey reveals a sector grappling with significant challenges, yet holding potential for a bright resurgence with the right support.

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.

Support

Kirsty McNeill, MP for Midlothian said:

Social clubs are not just gathering spaces—they are critical lifelines for reducing loneliness and building meaningful connections within communities. To truly unlock their potential, we must prioritise them as part of our national social infrastructure.

Nick Plumb, Power to Change said:

Community businesses come in all shapes and sizes. Social clubs are an often-forgotten form of community business that have been serving our communities, and bringing people together, for decades. We have long advocated for policies - like a Community Right to Buy - which would both help preserve long-standing social clubs and support the creation of new institutions. They are hugely important spaces, and their membership model is one we can all learn from.

Caitlin Prowle, Co-operative Party said:

Social clubs are an important part of our communities' history and future. Owned and operated by their members, they are vital spaces that should be at the centre of community life, bringing people together and putting power in local people's hands. As the government works to empower communities through a new Community Right to Buy and further devolution, a conference to discuss the future of social clubs and their contribution couldn't be more timely. 

Nick Keegan, Equity said: 

To Equity members, the social club circuit represents a rich and proud history of working-class Variety entertainment. The very origins of our union are rooted in the struggle of working-class Variety Artistes, dating back to Marie Lloyd and the Music Hall Strike. Social clubs have been a vital infrastructure that has preserved and developed variety entertainment for generations, as well as providing crucial opportunities for working-class performers to break into the cultural and creative industries.

About the Centre for Democratic Business

The Centre for Democratic Business advances democracy in our workplaces and communities through partnerships with local and national government, industry bodies, membership associations, and charitable foundations.

For Media Inquiries

If you're a journalist interested in covering this growing movement or would like to explore the stories behind our work, we welcome your questions and interview requests. Please reach out through our Contact section or via email.

  • Social clubs have diminished by half since their peak in the 1970s.

  • They are mutual, member-managed assets vital to community power and cohesion.

  • Unlike private ‘third spaces’, social clubs provide non-transactional community spaces.

  • There’s an urgent need to save and revitalise social clubs and put them at the heart of efforts to revive civil society.

There is no shortage of reports on the alarming decline of the nation’s social infrastructure, particularly the closure of community and youth centres, the collapse in the number of cultural venues, and the rising dominance of privately owned ‘third spaces’ in local communities. 

However, an overlooked aspect of this trend is the recent decline of Britain’s social clubs, a wide range of community assets that are under mutual ownership and managed by local members. Once numbering more than 4,000 at their peak in the 1970s, roughly half remain today, many of which are struggling to survive in historically disadvantaged and still economically neglected areas.

Although social clubs are a strange omission from current discussions about the future of civic infrastructure and calls for increased investment into third spaces, they have proven to be an effective model for creating community power and cohesion in the gap left by reduced public funding and the transactional approach of the private sector.

Recognising their ability to not only revive civil society but also place mutual values at the core of this recovery, the Centre for Democratic Business has been collaborating with organisations and individuals focused on the future of Britain's social clubs. Representing thousands of community assets, a new national survey reveals a sector grappling with significant challenges, yet holding potential for a bright resurgence with the right support.

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.

Support

Kirsty McNeill, MP for Midlothian said:

Social clubs are not just gathering spaces—they are critical lifelines for reducing loneliness and building meaningful connections within communities. To truly unlock their potential, we must prioritise them as part of our national social infrastructure.

Nick Plumb, Power to Change said:

Community businesses come in all shapes and sizes. Social clubs are an often-forgotten form of community business that have been serving our communities, and bringing people together, for decades. We have long advocated for policies - like a Community Right to Buy - which would both help preserve long-standing social clubs and support the creation of new institutions. They are hugely important spaces, and their membership model is one we can all learn from.

Caitlin Prowle, Co-operative Party said:

Social clubs are an important part of our communities' history and future. Owned and operated by their members, they are vital spaces that should be at the centre of community life, bringing people together and putting power in local people's hands. As the government works to empower communities through a new Community Right to Buy and further devolution, a conference to discuss the future of social clubs and their contribution couldn't be more timely. 

Nick Keegan, Equity said: 

To Equity members, the social club circuit represents a rich and proud history of working-class Variety entertainment. The very origins of our union are rooted in the struggle of working-class Variety Artistes, dating back to Marie Lloyd and the Music Hall Strike. Social clubs have been a vital infrastructure that has preserved and developed variety entertainment for generations, as well as providing crucial opportunities for working-class performers to break into the cultural and creative industries.

About the Centre for Democratic Business

The Centre for Democratic Business advances democracy in our workplaces and communities through partnerships with local and national government, industry bodies, membership associations, and charitable foundations.

For Media Inquiries

If you're a journalist interested in covering this growing movement or would like to explore the stories behind our work, we welcome your questions and interview requests. Please reach out through our Contact section or via email.

  • Social clubs have diminished by half since their peak in the 1970s.

  • They are mutual, member-managed assets vital to community power and cohesion.

  • Unlike private ‘third spaces’, social clubs provide non-transactional community spaces.

  • There’s an urgent need to save and revitalise social clubs and put them at the heart of efforts to revive civil society.

There is no shortage of reports on the alarming decline of the nation’s social infrastructure, particularly the closure of community and youth centres, the collapse in the number of cultural venues, and the rising dominance of privately owned ‘third spaces’ in local communities. 

However, an overlooked aspect of this trend is the recent decline of Britain’s social clubs, a wide range of community assets that are under mutual ownership and managed by local members. Once numbering more than 4,000 at their peak in the 1970s, roughly half remain today, many of which are struggling to survive in historically disadvantaged and still economically neglected areas.

Although social clubs are a strange omission from current discussions about the future of civic infrastructure and calls for increased investment into third spaces, they have proven to be an effective model for creating community power and cohesion in the gap left by reduced public funding and the transactional approach of the private sector.

Recognising their ability to not only revive civil society but also place mutual values at the core of this recovery, the Centre for Democratic Business has been collaborating with organisations and individuals focused on the future of Britain's social clubs. Representing thousands of community assets, a new national survey reveals a sector grappling with significant challenges, yet holding potential for a bright resurgence with the right support.

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.

Support

Kirsty McNeill, MP for Midlothian said:

Social clubs are not just gathering spaces—they are critical lifelines for reducing loneliness and building meaningful connections within communities. To truly unlock their potential, we must prioritise them as part of our national social infrastructure.

Nick Plumb, Power to Change said:

Community businesses come in all shapes and sizes. Social clubs are an often-forgotten form of community business that have been serving our communities, and bringing people together, for decades. We have long advocated for policies - like a Community Right to Buy - which would both help preserve long-standing social clubs and support the creation of new institutions. They are hugely important spaces, and their membership model is one we can all learn from.

Caitlin Prowle, Co-operative Party said:

Social clubs are an important part of our communities' history and future. Owned and operated by their members, they are vital spaces that should be at the centre of community life, bringing people together and putting power in local people's hands. As the government works to empower communities through a new Community Right to Buy and further devolution, a conference to discuss the future of social clubs and their contribution couldn't be more timely. 

Nick Keegan, Equity said: 

To Equity members, the social club circuit represents a rich and proud history of working-class Variety entertainment. The very origins of our union are rooted in the struggle of working-class Variety Artistes, dating back to Marie Lloyd and the Music Hall Strike. Social clubs have been a vital infrastructure that has preserved and developed variety entertainment for generations, as well as providing crucial opportunities for working-class performers to break into the cultural and creative industries.

About the Centre for Democratic Business

The Centre for Democratic Business advances democracy in our workplaces and communities through partnerships with local and national government, industry bodies, membership associations, and charitable foundations.

For Media Inquiries

If you're a journalist interested in covering this growing movement or would like to explore the stories behind our work, we welcome your questions and interview requests. Please reach out through our Contact section or via email.

The CfDB is a project of Stir to Action Ltd, a worker co-operative registered in England as a Company Limited by Guarantee. Company number 07951013

Our team is based in Dorset, London, and Manchester

Designed and built by Stir to Action Studio

You can subscribe to our newsletter here

The CfDB is a project of Stir to Action Ltd, a worker co-operative registered in England as a Company Limited by Guarantee. Company number 07951013

Our team is based in Dorset, London, and Manchester

Designed and built by Stir to Action Studio

You can subscribe to our newsletter here

The CfDB is a project of Stir to Action Ltd, a worker co-operative registered in England as a Company Limited by Guarantee. Company number 07951013

Our team is based in Dorset, London, and Manchester

Designed and built by Stir to Action Studio