The Working Men’s Club and Institute has come a long way since 1862, and its commitment to the future is further demonstrated by the instigation of this web site to keep member clubs informed of current affairs within the Union and the wider field.

In 1862 Henry Solly founded the Club and Institute Union. A great propagandist for clubs, he provided a much needed conceptual clarity to the notion of club work.

He was also an important advocate for the extension of working class political rights and helped to set up the Charity Organisation Society.
The Working Men’s Club and Institute Union is now the largest non-profit making social entertainment and leisure organisation in the UK, representing the interests and views of four million club members.
It is an advisory and defensive organisation, neutral in party politics and non-sectarian.

The current National Officials of the Union are:-

President - George Dawson CMD.

Vice President - John Tobin

General Secretary - Mick McGlasham