Purpose
This policy sets out how the Board will consider and approve applications for membership of Greystoke Community Land Trust Limited (CLT) in line with the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 and the CLT’s Rules (particularly Rules C8 and C12–C14).
Principles
- Open and inclusive – Membership is open to anyone who supports the CLT’s community-benefit objects and has a genuine local connection.
- Fair and transparent – All applications are handled consistently and decided by the Board (or delegated officer) using published criteria.
- Community accountability – Members should reflect the area served by the CLT and act in the community’s long-term interest.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- be aged 18 or over;
- hold at least one £1 membership share;
- live, work, or volunteer in the Parish of Greystoke or have another demonstrable ongoing connection to the area;
- support the CLT’s objectives and agree to act in the interests of the community (Rule C3);
- not fall within any of the exclusions in Rule C8 (e.g. minors, persons previously expelled without authorisation).
Organisations, charities, and community groups that operate in or serve the area may also apply for membership by nominating an authorised representative.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The CLT recognises and values the diversity of the Greystoke community and is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity in membership.
- No eligible person will be refused membership or treated less favourably on grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, including a lack of belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
- The CLT will take reasonable steps to remove barriers to participation, including accessible communications and meeting arrangements.
- All applicants and members are expected to uphold the CLT’s EDI values by treating others with fairness, courtesy, and respect.
This principle applies throughout the admissions process, membership engagement, and Board or volunteer participation.
Application Process
- Application form – Complete the approved CLT Membership Application Form and return it with the £1 share payment (refundable if not accepted).
- Review – The Secretary (or delegated Board member) checks that eligibility criteria are met.
- Board approval – Applications are presented to the next scheduled Board meeting (or considered under delegated authority between meetings) for decision in accordance with Rule C12.
- Notification – The applicant is notified in writing of the outcome within 14 days of the decision.
- Registration – On approval, the applicant’s name and details are entered in the Register of Members, and a share certificate is issued (Rule C14).
Grounds for Refusal
Applications may be refused where:
- the applicant does not meet the eligibility criteria;
- there is evidence of conduct likely to be detrimental to the CLT; or
- the application is incomplete or false.
The Board will record reasons for refusal in the minutes. Applicants may request the decision be reconsidered at the next Board or General Meeting.
Maintaining Membership
Members are expected to:
• keep contact details up to date;
• participate in meetings or communications; and
• continue meeting the eligibility criteria (Rule C15).
Failure to do so may result in the ending of membership under Rules C15–C16.
Record Keeping
The Secretary maintains the Register of Members in accordance with the Act and ensures all share payments are recorded. Member data will be processed in line with the CLT’s Data Protection Policy.
Review
This policy will be reviewed every two years or earlier if the CLT Rules are amended.
Related Documents
- Greystoke CLT Rules (particularly C8–C16)
- Membership Policy (public website summary)
- Membership Application Form
- Data Protection Policy