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Voluntary Groups and Community Centres
25 March 2026
Lead MP
Ben Coleman
Chelsea and Fulham
Lab
Responding Minister
Stephanie Peacock
Tags
Justice & CourtsHousingLocal Government
Word Count: 12602
Other Contributors: 14
At a Glance
Ben Coleman raised concerns about voluntary groups and community centres in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The lead MP asks for three things: clear guidance from DCMS on support provided to voluntary organisations managing council buildings, covering tenancy agreements and property management; guidance on issuing insecure tenancies or tenancies at will by local authorities acting as landlords; and transparency when communities' spaces are suddenly at risk of closure or disposal.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The financial position of community centres across England is stark: net spending on community centres and public halls has fallen by 38% in real terms since 09, with over half of community organisations expecting lease-related difficulties. The insecurity around leasing is the single greatest threat to the sector. Access to capital funding is incredibly difficult, with success rates as low as one in twenty applications. Many community centres operate out of ageing, poorly maintained premises and face challenges related to landlord practices and local authority procedures. One example mentioned was the sudden eviction of St Mary Abbots Rehabilitation and Training (SMART) centre by the council last summer without warning or alternative provision.
Alex Easton
Ind
North Down
Acknowledges the essential services provided by community and voluntary organisations, citing examples from his constituency like uHub and Bangor food bank, urging recognition and support for these groups.
Anna Sabine
Lib Dem
Frome and East Somerset
The hon. Member highlighted the importance of voluntary organisations in fostering social cohesion and community spirit, noting that Great Britain is home to around 21,000 community centres and halls and 166,000 voluntary organisations as of 2022. She mentioned several challenges faced by these organisations, including funding difficulties, tough lease negotiations, high operational costs, and the impact of increased employer national insurance contributions. Anna Sabine also introduced Volunteer It Yourself, a project that invites young people not in employment, education or training to refurbish community centres and sports grounds.
Chris Kane
Lab
Stirling and Strathallan
Chris Kane highlighted the importance of modernising community centres beyond traditional models, citing examples such as Braehead community garden and Barrwood Scout facility. He emphasised the need for ongoing support and recognised the challenges faced by local authorities due to funding constraints. He called for a rethinking of community services as fundamental needs rather than optional extras.
Clive Jones
LD
Wokingham
Voluntary groups in Wokingham provide essential services like feeding the hungry, supporting isolated individuals, and aiding those in crisis. Funding cuts are jeopardising these vital services, with some charities facing limited grant cycles and uncertain futures.
Daniel Francis
Lab
Bexleyheath and Crayford
Mr Francis highlighted the challenges faced by voluntary groups and charities in securing dedicated spaces for their operations. He mentioned specific cases such as Scout groups facing property issues, Sendtivate being concerned about its building disposal, and the demolition of Parkside community centre due to safety concerns without a clear future plan. The MP noted that 70% of respondents were unaware of the council's plans regarding the site's future and 89% believed the council should build a new centre itself.
David Chadwick
Lib Dem
Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe
Community transport in rural Wales is vital for connecting people to healthcare appointments, community hubs, and volunteer opportunities. Services like Hay and district dial-a-ride face pressures from rising fuel costs without the ability to increase prices, leading to potential service cuts.
Gregory Campbell
DUP
East Londonderry
Community centres and groups in East Londonderry have stepped up to host events for local schools and provide support when the government does not intervene.
Jayne Kirkham
Lab Co-op
Truro and Falmouth
Suggests that places without Pride in Place funding should explore other sources such as the National Lottery Community Fund and Sport England, praising town councils for taking on responsibilities during austerity. The Trelander Community Centre closure highlights the challenges of securing funds for rebuilding community centres after damage or loss. The situation has persisted for months and needs addressing to prevent long-term closures.
Jim Dickson
Lab
Dartford
Highlights the importance of local facilities in bringing communities together, mentioning closed Swanscombe pavilion as an example needing investment, advocating for long-term funding.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
The voluntary sector in Northern Ireland, particularly Strangford, is highly charitable with a significant number of volunteers. In 2024-25, almost 46% of adults in Northern Ireland volunteered formally or informally, and church volunteers contribute approximately £250,000 annually per medium-sized church. And meet his mother!
Lee Pitcher
Lab
Doncaster East and the Isle of Axholme
Community centres and voluntary groups in Doncaster East provide critical support for mental health, food security, and community pride. These organisations need stable funding and accessible administrative processes to continue their work effectively.
Louie French
Con
Old Bexley and Sidcup
Louie French highlighted the impact of voluntary organisations in his constituency, noting their financial challenges. He cited statistics showing over 166,000 such organisations nationally, with 92% earning less than £1 million annually. He criticised recent government policies for increasing costs and reducing funding for charities while demand is rising.
Mark Sewards
Lab
Leeds South West
Commends Farnley Community Centre for its Easter parade and efforts to engage local residents through the neighbourhood board, highlighting innovative use of Pride in Place money.
Poole
Voluntary groups are crucial for community well-being in Poole. The Pride in Place programme and local initiatives like Positive about Poole aim to involve residents in shaping their town, with £20 million funding supporting regeneration efforts.
Government Response
Stephanie Peacock
Government Response
Thanked contributors for their input and highlighted the importance of voluntary groups and centres. Responded to points raised by other MPs, mentioning initiatives like the community right to buy and common ground award. Emphasised the value of community spaces and organisations in local communities.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.