Membership & Shareholding
In order to be a sustainable co-operative society we need members to participate in the running of the company and the management and development of the land. The land has been donated to the company as our major asset and cannot be sold, but we do need reserves of money and for running costs such as insurance, tools, plants and maintenance.
We raise income from the annual membership fee, sale of modest amounts of produce, charges for commercial events and donations (and possibly grants) for special projects such as education.
Membership
In order to become a member, people must hold at least one share and pay the annual subscription. The membership year runs from 1 June.
Members benefit from participation in the community and from a share of the produce such as fruit, vegetables, honey, cider, firewood and coppiced hazel and willow, often in return for helping out. We also get a nice warm feeling from owning a lovely woodland – which helps on a cold day!
We do sell some produce, such as honey, cider and wood. Members benefit from a discount and only if there is a surplus do we sell it locally.
Shares
Shares have a nominal value of £1 but members have only one vote however many shares they own. Under 16s can own shares but pay no membership fee. You will receive a colourful share certificate. Shares pay no interest and can be withdrawn with notice. Every shareholder has one vote at our autumn AGM, however many shares are held – this is how a co-operative works.
Membership at a Glance
To become a member of Rollins Wood Community:
Buy one or more £1 community shares
Add adult membership (£10 per year in 2026)
Junior membership is free