Thank you to the 73 representatives from RYA affiliates who recently completed the RYA Facilities and Utilities Survey. The information which has been received will play a key role in increasing the RYA’s understanding of how the rising cost of living is impacting RYA affiliated clubs and recognised training centres.
Initial findings
As anticipated, initial key findings from the survey illustrate that affiliates are feeling the effects of the on-going financial changes, particularly those relating to energy, with 18% of respondents reporting that they have been issued a utility bill with an increase of over 150%, and a further 12% have experienced an increase of between 101-125%.
The findings so far reflect those recently published in the Sports and Recreational Alliance’s (SRA) Cost of Living Crisis report. The SRA’s findings show a growing proportion of grassroots community clubs are in severe financial difficulty, with a rise in running costs and a 16% fall in participation being held responsible.
We will be reporting on the full data insight of the RYA Facilities and Utilities Survey in the February edition of Club Room.
Further support
To support RYA affiliated clubs and recognised training centres with the rising cost of living, Phil Horton, RYA Environment & Sustainability Manager, will be hosting a webinar covering tips and advice for lowering your club’s running costs. The ‘Understanding and reducing your club’s operating costs’ webinar will be held on 02 February at 7.30pm.
If you are a member of an RYA affiliate and would like to register to join the webinar, you can do so by following this Teams link.
Members of RYA affiliates can also join the RYA team for a webinar on ‘Exploring alternative revenue streams for your club’ on 15 February. Hear how other clubs have created new revenue streams to fund their core activity as well as the potential legal implications of adapting your club’s offering.
To register your interest in the above webinar, please follow this Teams link.
If you have any questions regarding the RYA Facilities and Utilities Survey, please contact the RYA Environment and Sustainability Team by emailing: environment@rya.org.uk.