form a community group
the next step to taking action
If you have gauged a shared local interest in your goals, it might help to form a group of people from within your community to take action.
Below are several factors that might be useful to consider when setting up such a group:
- Decide on the group’s aims and objectives, and come up with an action plan. These need to be achievable and realistic – think and plan in small steps at a time
- Agree on a catchy name that conveys your purpose – a short, memorable name will generate more interest than a lengthy, long-winded one
- It might be an idea to arrive at an agreed set of written rules before the group begins any operations. This will make certain situations easier to deal with if they arise, ie the action to be taken if a member consistently causes arguments, shows disrespect for others or fails to attend meetings
- Establish one point of contact for the group – one phone number and email address that people can remember
- If you intend to fundraise, it will be useful to have a common bank account – never use your own. Any group account will require two signatories for security, and you should record every transaction and make accounting information available at every meeting for members to view. The Co-operative Bank offers a free banking service specifically designed to help community organisations – visit www.communitydirectplus.co.uk for more information
- Circulate information regularly to keep members interested. Hold regular briefings and make sure important information is broadcasted to all participants
- Allocate particular roles for group members. Your members may be able to draw on diverse background and useful experience
- Try not to be overly imposing if you are chairing the group. Also it is vital to allow everyone their say, otherwise they will lose interest if they do not feel involved – remember they are giving up their free time to attend the meeting
- Make meetings enjoyable. Socialising may be just as valid as lengthy meetings, and also it helps build rapport and confidence
- Maintain a focus on the original aim, and try and remain enthusiastic despite any set‑backs. Infectious enthusiasm will attract people to your cause.
Find out about
organising an event in our events calendar to publicise your meeting.