The Mass Observation Archive
The Mass Observation Archive (MOA) specialises in material about everyday life in Britain. It contains papers generated by the original MO social research organisation (1937 to early 1950s), and newer material collected continuously since 1981 (Mass Observation Project). MOA is a charitable trust in the care of the University of Sussex. It is housed at The Keep.
Activities & Mission
The Mass Observation Archive (MOA) specialises in material about everyday life in Britain. It contains papers generated by the original MO social research organisation (1937 to early 1950s), and newer material collected continuously since 1981 (Mass Observation Project). MOA is a charitable trust in the care of the University of Sussex. It is housed at The Keep.
Areas of Operation
Where this charity is registered to operate, as self-declared to the Charity Commission. These are regulatory classifications, not a list of active programmes, and don't necessarily indicate fundraising activity in each location.
Country
Region
Financial Information
Financial Efficiency
Financial Trend
Annual Returns
As filed with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Most recent filing covers the financial year ending 2025.
One or more years show a significant change in income (over ±100%) compared with the prior year. This usually reflects a merger, transfer of activities, restated accounts, or a one-off legacy — not necessarily a real change in operating scale. See the methodology for context.
The Commission record shows this related event on the register:
- Asset transfer in in 2019 — The Mass Observation Archive (organisation 270218)
| Financial Year | Income | Expenditure | Charitable Spending | Net Assets | Reserves | Staff |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | £164,669 | £173,605 | 0 / 10 | |||
| 2024 | £207,271 | £152,912 | 0 / 10 | |||
| 2023 | £292,464 | £157,235 | 0 / 5 | |||
| 2022 | £214,985 | £123,657 | 0 / 10 | |||
| 2021 | £105,839 | £122,511 | 0 / 3 |
Staff column shows: Employees / Volunteers
Frequently asked questions about The Mass Observation Archive
What does The Mass Observation Archive do?
The Mass Observation Archive (MOA) specialises in material about everyday life in Britain. It contains papers generated by the original MO social research organisation (1937 to early 1950s), and newer material collected continuously since 1981 (Mass Observation Project). MOA is a charitable trust in the care of the University of Sussex. It is housed at The Keep.
How much income did The Mass Observation Archive report in 2025?
The Mass Observation Archive reported total income of £165k and reported expenditure of £174k for the financial year ending 2025, based on the most recent annual return filed with the Charity Commission.
When was The Mass Observation Archive registered as a charity?
The Mass Observation Archive was registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales on 28 August 2018 as charity number 1179673. It has been registered for 8 years.
Who runs The Mass Observation Archive?
The Mass Observation Archive is governed by a board of 9 trustees. The chair of trustees is Dr Fiona Courage. Trustees are legally responsible for the charity's governance and are listed in full on its profile.
Where does The Mass Observation Archive operate?
The Mass Observation Archive operates across 3 areas: Northern Ireland, Scotland and England And Wales.
Is The Mass Observation Archive a registered charity?
Yes — The Mass Observation Archive is a registered charity in England and Wales, charity number 1179673.
Details
THE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY
FALMER
BRIGHTON
BN1 9QL
Registry Information
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Also governs 1 other charity
Also governs 1 other charity
Data & trust
- Register data refreshed
- 30 July 2026
- Methodology
- How metrics are calculated