The number of playing members and volunteers at sports clubs across England is growing steadily, according to a new report published by the Sport and Recreation Alliance (SRA) and Sport England.
The Sports Club Survey Report 2017-18, which surveyed 1,600 clubs in England, shows that more than half (53%) of clubs expect their adult membership to continue increasing, with two thirds (66%) expecting similar growth among their junior membership.
Encouragingly, the volunteering – a crucial resource for all grassroots clubs – is also on the rise, with a third of clubs (33%) reporting an increase in the number of volunteers.
The survey also shows that investment in facilities remains a priority for sports clubs.
In the past two years, 69% of clubs have invested in improving their existing facilities, while one in five (21%) of clubs have invested money in building new facilities.
Clubs are still, however, relying on public sector bodies to help deliver their activities.
In total, over two thirds of clubs, (69%) use facilities that are owned by the public sector.
Commenting on the report, SAPCA chief executive Chris Trickey said: “The survey shows that, in general terms, English sports clubs are going strong and continuing to grow. It is also encouraging to see that clubs see investment in their facilities as a priority.
“As money can be tight, it is important that clubs have all the support they need when making those investments and improvements to their facilities. That’s where SAPCA and its members can help.
“The industry provides support and guidance for projects of all types and sizes and provides expert advice on all aspects of project delivery. The SAPCA website offers a number of resources for those looking to undertake a facility project, from initial planning and funding through to construction and on-going maintenance.”
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To read the full Report, please click [here]