Community Groups in Gosport

Clubs, societies, and volunteering in the borough

Gosport has an active community sector, with voluntary groups, clubs, and societies covering a wide range of interests and providing support services across the borough.

The Gosport Voluntary Action (GVA) serves as the main umbrella organisation for the voluntary sector, providing support, information, and coordination for community groups. GVA can signpost residents to local groups and volunteering opportunities.

Sporting clubs cover football, cricket, sailing, running, and cycling. Gosport Borough Football Club plays at Privett Park and has a loyal local following. Gosport and Stokes Bay Cricket Club provides competitive cricket. The sailing clubs at Stokes Bay and Hardway offer both racing and social activities. Gosport Road Runners and informal running groups cater to runners of varying abilities.

Historical and heritage groups include the Gosport Society, which campaigns for the preservation of the town's built heritage and environment. Local history enthusiasts meet through various groups that research and record the borough's past.

Community centres in the borough provide meeting spaces and activity programmes. The Thorngate Halls and Community Centre on Bury Road is one of the main venues, hosting events, classes, and social gatherings. Church halls and school premises also provide community meeting spaces.

Parent and toddler groups, scouting and guiding groups, and youth organisations operate across the residential areas. These are particularly important in the estates such as Rowner and Bridgemary, where they provide structured activities for young people.

RSPB and wildlife groups are active in the borough, reflecting the proximity to harbour, coastal, and wetland habitats. The Alver Valley Country Park attracts conservation volunteers.

Foodbanks, operated through churches and community organisations, provide support for residents in need. The demand for foodbank services has grown in recent years, reflecting the economic pressures on the borough.

For those looking to get involved, the council's community pages, the GVA website, and local social media groups are the best starting points for finding groups that match your interests.