Setting up a new club

Creating a new club from the outset can be a daunting process. But this doesn’t have to be the case. Below is our step by step guide to creating a new club, which aims to make the process as simple as possible for all those involved.

And, through affiliating to Mountaineering Scotland you can receive support from our team, who will be able to assist with making your club a reality.

Braes o' Fife MC

Step 1: I want to create a new club

Great! At this stage, it worth getting a plan together and thinking about:

  • What is your club is going to offer? What is its purpose?
  • Are there clubs already in your area? If yes, what makes yours different?
  • Who is your target audience? Think about factors like age range and activity group, ie hill walkers, climbers, mountaineers

Step 2: "I love it when a plan comes together"

Now you can start to look at how the club exists and the form it will take.

For example:

  • A club based on a geographical area or common interest
  • A climbing club based out of the local climbing wall
  • A social media based club (eg Facebook, Meetup.com)
  • A club within an existing organisation (local business, local authority)
  • An after school club

Step 3: Committee time

Finding key people who are willing to volunteer their time to a club committee can be challenging. However, these positions are vital to the club’s operation and wellbeing. The posts can also be extremely rewarding for those who take them on and help to build and support a clubs future.

Step 4: What we need from you

To becoming an affiliated club with Mountaineering Scotland, we need some paperwork from the club. Downloadable templates are available here:

We have a wealth of downloadable resources for our clubs which you can find on our Club Resource page. Here you will find everything membership forms to risk assessments. 

Step 5: Moving on...

The club is up and running - great! Let’s keep it that way. Once a club is up and running it is easy to fall into the trap of sitting back and letting it tick over. Be active! Actively engage with your members, looking to fulfil the aims and ambitions of the club.

We're flexible

Our clubs have lots of different ways of running and operating. No matter how they do this, we look to support them every step of the way. If you have an idea for a club which is a bit different, then we will look to fit around you.

If you can’t find what you are after or you have questions relating to creating and developing your club then please contact us for advice or a discussion.