One of the most established working men’s clubs in the UK has decided to drop “working men” from its name in an effort to rebrand and attract new members. The Louth Social Club in Lincolnshire has been active for over 150 years, but dwindling numbers have forced a change. The club’s management believes that the “working men” aspect of its name has created an image problem that no longer reflects reality. The club actually employs only women as bar staff and has welcomed female members for a decade. It also offers junior memberships. The rebrand was necessary after membership had fallen to just a few hundred, from a high of around 1,000 a few decades ago.
The Louth Social Club, originally called the Conservative Working Men’s Club, is just one of thousands of clubs that have experienced similar problems in recent years. Officials from the nationwide Club and Institute Union say that more than three-quarters of working men’s clubs have closed over the past 50 years. They highlight updated venues and an increased focus on training and business as ways to help clubs survive. The organisation has changed its own name to reflect the changing demographics of club members. The cost of living is seen as a major factor in the dwindling numbers of younger people patronising working men’s clubs.
Meanwhile, Castle Ward in Lincoln has managed to thrive despite the challenges. The club counts 1,000 members, and sells socialisation, activities, and entertainment at reasonable prices to all members. Two sisters, Julie Lawson and Janet Ballam, have been instrumental in maintaining the club’s success. They can trace their family’s involvement back to over eight decades ago when their grandmother was part of the founding committee. The club offers trips, bingo, and social gatherings. However, the management is still working towards attracting younger members. Dan Neale, a 36-year-old hospitality worker, admits to enjoying the “cheap drinks”, “nice atmosphere”, and playing snooker.
Louth Social Club’s management are doing their best to make the club more welcoming. Despite having invested in facilities and a new function room, the club is battling to stay financially stable. There are numerous bills to pay, and a GoFundMe page has been launched to encourage donations. Club secretary, Steph Vines, has not been taking a wage, choosing to work for next to nothing to keep the club running. Vines believes that the club does not need to make money; it just needs to pay the bills and sustain itself. Finally, bar worker Anni Cawley mentions the great times and experiences that people are missing out on. The women-only bar is
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