Fled from coalfields for The Gathering (6)

I believe the answer is:

social

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'for the gathering' is the definition.
(social is a kind of gathering)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for social that I've seen before include "Convivial - party" , "Public servant caring for the underprivileged" , "Relating to society" , "Living in an organised community in Licosa" , "Relating to living together in communities" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times (Crosaire) and the Irish Times.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app