Rosslyn Court in Margate: setting up a community-based accessible and inclusive folk venue in England

This reflective paper describes the process of setting up a community folk venue in a deprived coastal area of Kent. The demographic of the area is described together with the background of the founders. Initial business considerations are briefly recounted in the context of modern management theory. The process of linking with the local community is described, first in practical terms, then with reference to art-led regeneration theory. Initial steps and early contacts are described as well as how initial setbacks, such as the Covid pandemic, were managed. The authors argue that it is possible to run a successful folk venue in a more inclusive and progressive way and encourages folk organisers to embrace a community focused approach with all its challenges and opportunities.