For its members, Community Matters offers:
- 63 years of experience as the National Federation promoting and
supporting community associations. - Free legal advice clinic provided by Law Works.
- Clear information and legal advice in simple language produced
specifically for busy volunteers. A national network linking community associations and similar organisations across England, Wales and Scotland. - Up-to-date information on government policies and new and existing
legislation and regulations affecting community organisations and community
buildings. - A channel through which to lobby Government and represent the interests
of community organisations in current policy debates.
Community Matters supports its members and other community organisations directly through:
- Information sheets and a bi-monthly magazine, COMMUNITY both of which are available free to members.
- Community Matters publications and also a wider publications list available on mail order, soon also available to order and pay on line, which are free or discounted cost to members.
- An advice service, including a telephone and email advice line.
- A consultancy service, offering consultancy visits at different levels from trained practitioners of which the initial first consultancy is free to members.
- Specialist development work to promote good practice and encourage new initiatives.
- An annual national conference for members and others concerned with community involvement, at which members receive a discounted rate.
- Regional events.
- A training programme for community organisations covering all aspects of their work of which members will receive a 10% discount.
- A Phonographic Performance Ltd licensing scheme for the use of recorded music of which members receive a discounted licence rate.
- A customised insurance service of which members receive a special discounted rate.
- Bar separation and incorporations service of which members receive a 10% discount.
- Providing regular briefings on policy, legal issues and other technical subjects.
Community Matters advocates for its members, and the wider community sector, by:
- Undertaking research.
- Examining new legislation and regulation, and monitoring the impact of what already exists.
- Contributing to social policy debate.
- Promoting public awareness.
- Acting in a consultative capacity to Local and Central Government.
In all its activities, Community Matters gives priority to the needs and interests of voluntary management committees.
Click here for membership fees and how to apply online or on this link to download an application form
