Government funding for public social spaces has plummeted by a fifth over the past two years, recent data from Freedom of Information requests has revealed. The figures, which cover 96 local authorities, show that spending on community services and provisions has declined by 18 per cent between 2022 and 2024.
As a result, numerous community spaces have fallen into disrepair, including Brockmoor Community Centre in the West Midlands. A hub that kept local children off the streets, the centre was on the verge of closure in 2022 before being taken over by volunteers.
“It has been heartbreaking to see Brockmoor’s decline over the years,” said Gemma-Louise Robins, secretary and trustee at Brockmoor Community Centre. “We know we are just one space out of many that is feeling the very real impacts of funding cuts.”
“These are more than just buildings, they are the heart of our communities, a commitment to funding is critical before it’s too late,” she added.
Fortunately, the centre was given a new lease of life thanks to help from TV personality and interior designer Banjo Beale. He has teamed up with Crown Paints for ‘The Space Between’ campaign.
The Space Between’ campaign is just one element of Crown’s Project Possible initiative, to help community centres like Brockmoor to paint their possible and to raise awareness of the deterioration of community hubs.
Katie McLean, a representative for the decorating brand backing a petition to keep these spaces open and serving the community, stated: “Across the UK, shared spaces are disappearing, leading to high levels of disconnection and loneliness in communities.
“Thriving spaces are the very foundations of a strong society, but without proper funding, these spaces will struggle to remain pillars of community.”
“Our work with Banjo has been deeply rewarding,” added Katie, “but that alone is not enough. Real and lasting change requires stronger action and commitment to long term funding to ensure these spaces receive the support they need to truly flourish”
A recent survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 22 per cent have noticed a decline in local spaces such as halls and centres over the past decade, despite their importance to the community.
Eight out of ten adults believe community spaces are crucial for improving connections within the area, as well as enhancing physical and mental wellbeing.
Interestingly, 77 per cent of those surveyed said the aesthetics of a community space contribute to how inclined they are to use it. As a result, 53 per cent said that if local spaces improved they’d be more appealing to them.
“How a space makes you feel especially one meant to bring people together is so important,” Banjo expressed. “However, lack of funding is making it increasingly more difficult for the centres that are running to maintain a welcoming and vibrant community space.”