- Over one in five (22%) Brits report a decline in shared community spaces over the past decade
- New Freedom of Information (FOI) requests found that spending on community-related services and provisions has fallen by 18% since 2022
- Crown Paints and interior designer Banjo Beale join forces in ‘The Space Between’ campaign to raise awareness of declining spaces between work and home and to back a call on the UK government to restore funding for vital community spaces
From community buildings shutting down to youth club closures, deep funding cuts across the UK are accelerating the decline of communal, shared spaces. New Freedom of Information (FOI) requests1 conducted by Crown Paints to 155 local authorities – of which 96 have responded with data – found that spending on community-related services and provisions fell by a concerning 18% between the years 2022 and 2024.
This is supported with new research findings, which found that over a fifth (22%) of people in the UK noting a decline in community spaces over the past decade. The research of 2,000 respondents2 found that over a third (35%) say there are far too few community spaces locally, while nearly three quarters (72%) say having a community space is important for their overall physical wellbeing.
The study also highlights the importance of having shared spaces to combat social issues such as loneliness and community engagement. A significant four in five (81%) people say a community space is important for improving social connections with others, and 78% say it contributes to a sense of belonging. Over half (53%) believe improving the community space in their area would make it more appealing.
Recognising the importance of vital community places – which offer social settings separate to the home and the workplace where people connect, Crown Paints has teamed up with interior designer and TV personality, Banjo Beale to launch ‘The Space Between’ campaign, to raise awareness of the decline of shared spaces through action.
Through the power of paint, Crown transforms spaces into vibrant communities that bring people together. This campaign marks the latest step in Crown’s ongoing commitment through its Project Possible initiative, projects across the UK.
As part of the campaign, Crown and Banjo have transformed a local community centre in the West Midlands. Brockmoor Community Centre, which had fallen into deep disrepair as the only local centre without funding. Earlier this month, Crown and Banjo worked with local volunteers from Property Services company, Bell Group to revitalise the space, breathing new life into it to better serve the community and restore its role as a vital hub for connection.
Banjo Beale, TV personality and interior designer said: “Shared spaces are integral to feeling a sense of belonging and social connection outside of home and work. It is devastating to see the decline of these cherished spaces in communities across the country.
“How a space makes you feel – especially one meant to bring people together – is so important. However, lack of funding is making it increasingly more difficult for the centres that are running to maintain a welcoming and vibrant community space.”
Katie McLean, spokesperson for Crown Paints said: “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, reviving a once-thriving hub for the community, 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.”
As part of the campaign, Crown Paints is also supporting a call from Brockmoor Community Centre to ensure these vital spaces remain accessible, vibrant and continue to serve their essential role in the community as the space between home and work. The petition, led by Brockmoor, is calling on the Government to commit to a long-term investment plan to fund, protect and stop the decline of vital community spaces. To support and sign the petition, visit: Support Kelly Hickman’s petition – Petitions
Crown Paints presents The Space Between: a campaign to save shared spaces in the UK
Across the UK, shared spaces are disappearing, leading to high levels of disconnection and loneliness in communities.
Community Centre Case Study – Brockmore Community Centre
Once a bustling hub, Brockmoor Community Centre in the West Midlands is run by volunteers, who took it over nearly two years ago when it had only 20 members and was on the brink of closure.
Years of no local funding and insufficient fundraising had left the centre in disrepair – particularly for youth group services – because of its dilapidated condition. The centre’s dark and dingy space deterred children, who described it as rundown and depressing. With nowhere to go, local children are resorting to hanging out in streets or playing in football in a car park. The centre aims to provide a secure environment where children can enjoy activities such as football, dance and after school clubs.
Community and leisure related services in the wider region are also facing cuts. FOI data from nearby Birmingham City Council, revealed a 43% drop in funds to culture and related services since 2022.
Gemma-Louise Robins, secretary and trustee at Brockmoor Community Centre said: “It has been heartbreaking to see Brockmoor’s decline over the years. When we it took over, we dreamed of creating a safe space for children and the wider community to come together – an inclusive place to belong, feel seen and to thrive.
“We know we are just one space out of many that is feeling the very real impacts of funding cuts. Across the country, vital community spaces are disappearing under the weight of financial pressures. These are more than just buildings; they are the heart of our communities. A commitment to properly funding spaces like ours is so critical before it’s too late.”
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