Purpose
Greystoke CLT is a Community Benefit Society (registered under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014). This policy summarises how membership works in plain language. The full legal provisions are in our Rules (sections C12–C16).
Who Can Become a Member
Membership is open to individuals and organisations that support the Trust’s objectives and have a local connection with Greystoke and the surrounding area – for example, people who live, work, or volunteer locally.
Applicants must:
- be aged 18 or over (Rule C8.1);
- hold one £1 membership share; and
- agree to act in the interests of the community and the CLT’s aims
- uphold the CLTs values
The Board keeps and publishes a policy for admitting members (Rule C12).
How to Join
Apply in writing to the Secretary explaining your connection to the area and pay the £1 membership share (Rules C13–C14). You can do this by filling out the Membership Application form.
The Board considers applications in line with its published admission policy. If approved, your name will be entered in the Register of Members and a share certificate issued.
The membership share is non-withdrawable and non-refundable. If your membership ends (e.g. by resignation, death, or expulsion), the share is cancelled and the amount remains the property of the Society.
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.
Member Rights and Responsibilities
Members:
- each have one vote at general meetings regardless of shareholding (Rule C8.7);
- may stand for election to the Board; and
- receive updates about the CLT’s work.
All members agree to act for the benefit of the community and to be bound by and uphold the CLT’s Rules and values.
Ending or Termination of Membership
Membership may end in any of the circumstances set out in Rules C15–C16, including:
- voluntary withdrawal by written notice to the Secretary (C15.3);
- death or, for an organisation, dissolution (C15.1 – C15.5);
- ceasing to meet eligibility (e.g. no longer connected to the area – C15.8);
- expulsion by resolution of members at a special general meeting (C16); or
- non-participation in two consecutive AGMs without apology (C15.4).
When membership ends:
- the £1 membership share is cancelled in accordance with Rule C5;
- any other share capital is treated under Rules C46–C51; and
- the person’s name is removed from the Register of Members.
Data and Privacy
We hold members’ contact details only for legitimate administrative purposes and comply with data protection law. See our separate Privacy Policy.
Questions or Appeals
Members may raise questions about membership or request a review of decisions by writing to the Secretary at the registered office.
References
For the full, legally binding provisions please see the Greystoke Community Land Trust Rules (Clauses C12 – C16 and C46 – C51) available on the Mutuals Public Register or on request from the CLT.