Durham Women FC’s fight for survival ‘extremely worrying’

The Women’s Super League 2 side revealed earlier this week they could fold within 21 days unless new investment is found to plug a reported £1m shortfall.

Now, a Department for Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson has acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, saying: “For the fans, players and staff of Durham Women FC, this is an extremely worrying situation.

“It is critical for the benefit of everyone involved that the club provides clarity over its immediate and long-term plan.”

The intervention comes after Durham MP Mary Kelly Foy wrote to a Government minister urging support to safeguard the club.

In her letter, Ms Foy warned that the loss of Durham Women would be “far more than the disappearance of a football club”, describing it as a “devastating blow” to the city, the wider North East and “hundreds upon hundreds of women and young girls” who see the club as a pathway into the sport.

Durham MP Mary Kelly Foy has written to the Culture Media and Sport department about the situation, which she says would be a ‘devastating blow’ to the region. (Image: UK PARLIAMENT)

She highlighted the club’s role in developing women’s football outside the traditional structures of the men’s professional game, adding that allowing it to collapse would “send an entirely contradictory message” at a time when the sport is growing rapidly.

Ms Foy said: “At a time when successive governments have championed the growth of women’s football and celebrated the achievements of England’s Lionesses, allowing a club such as Durham Women FC to disappear would undermine years of progress in promoting participation, equality, and opportunity.”

(Image: The Northern Echo)

The Labour MP also pointed to the wider impact on the local area, including the club’s contribution to the economy, job creation and its role in attracting visitors and inspiring young players.

She added: “The next 20 days may determine whether future generations of women and girls in Durham continue to have a local club to support, aspire to join, and be inspired by.”

Durham confirmed on Monday they are actively seeking either investment or a full takeover – just 16 months after securing investment from North East EuroMillions winners – after prolonged talks with potential backers broke down in recent weeks.

Against all odds, as a club, players and everyone who has been involved in our journey from the very beginning we have overcome so much together. We cannot allow this to be the end 💙 @DurhamWFC https://t.co/TPfIM5S51P

— Lauren Briggs (@laurenbriggsx) June 8, 2026

Players and staff have been told the club will cease operations at all levels if no deal is agreed within the deadline.

Founded in 2007, Durham have spent more than a decade in the second tier and built a reputation as one of the leading independent women’s clubs in the country, despite not being backed by a professional men’s side.

However, they have increasingly struggled to compete financially with clubs supported by Premier League and EFL organisations.