Ansvar Insurance have conducted an analysis which raises concerns about unexpected financial risks and ability to manage rising costs, due to most community centres and village halls across Hampshire operation on modest incomes.
There are 406 registered charities operating these buildings, with only 125 reporting of an annual income of above £50,000 which highlights the constraints facing many local organisations, and increasing vulnerability.
Community centres are so impactful to the services and people that rely on it, so a single incident will ripple into the wider neighbourhood.
Ansvar has encouraged community centres to focus on these key areas:
- Conducting regular maintenance checks, particularly for roofs, electrics and fire safety systems
- Keeping gutters, drains and external areas clear, reducing the likelihood of water damage
- Ensuring volunteers understand safety procedures, especially when buildings are used for multiple activities
- Reviewing insurance cover regularly, so it reflects how the building is currently used and the sums insured accurately represent the cost of rebuilding the premises in the event of a loss
Adam Tier, Head of Underwriting at Ansvar Insurance, commented:
“As a specialist insurer for community organisations, we see the dedication of volunteers who keep these buildings running, often with limited resources that make it harder to keep up with essential maintenance.
“With the right planning and protection in place, whether that’s addressing maintenance issues or reviewing insurance cover, these important spaces can be protected, ensuring they continue to serve their communities.”