- there is much more trading where members are geographically close, and
abuse is easily prevented.
2 A Solid Core Group
- to organise a LETS you need a variety of skills, don't try to run a scheme alone. See the
list of Management Group jobs, which help to ensure your scheme runs
effectively and sustainably.
3 Be Efficient
- keep accurate records, ensure the directory, newsletter and accounts
are published regularly.
4 Keep People In Touch
- exchange depends on friendly relationships and people meeting one
another. Organise regular social and trading events.
5 A Broad Cross-Section
- attract a good cross-section of the community, as reciprocal exchange
is more likely if people have widely different skills and interests.
Starting Your Own LETS
Send for a copy of the LETS INFO PACK (7th ed.), at £10 (incl post)
from LETSLINK UK. This is the essential practical guide used by most UK LETS groups
- containing the UK LETS model rules, guidelines, templates and a host of other materials to make
starting a LETS easy.
A LETS can easily be started by any group of local residents. It needs a
core group of at least 6 people, all living within easy travelling distance.
Once a local scheme is set up, the simple administration requires about
two days input every two months (depending on equipment and resources) to
run a network of 100 members. Networks of between 50 and 800 members are
being organised successfully by a wide variety of groups - including local
clubs, residents associations, voluntary agencies, mental health user groups,
churches, unemployed groups, community development agencies, co-ops, credit
unions, self-employed businesses and local government.
LETS Cut Costs
A LETS can be set up by any group, regardless of income. The only essential
equipment is access to a home computer and a photocopier. Each LETS is
independent, self-supporting, and run on a nonprofit basis. Running costs
are covered by annual membership fees of between £3 and £10
per person, and small charges on accounts in the local unit.
Support For Local Groups
Full information and back-up for LETS groups in Britain and Europe is available
from LETSLINK UK, the world's first LETS Development Agency. Since it was founded
in 1991, LETSLINK has led the spectacular development and growth of UK model LETS to well over
400 networks in 1997, and introduced LETS into 16 European countries.
LETSLINK produces tested and approved model rules and guidelines and offers the most comprehensive
range of information, materials, advice and support services including
national network membership, conferences, consultancy and research.
Local Authorities and LETS
A national information exchange for Local Authorities involved
in LETS has been formed, working in collaboration with LETSLINK UK.
A growing number of Local Authorities are joining, or supporting, existing LETS
with grants or in kind support. Some are employing LETS development
workers (under the Anti Poverty Initiative or Local Agenda 21)
to start new groups, especially in low income areas. For an overview and details of UK Local Authority involvement in LETS, please send £2.50 for Issue 3 of letslink! magazine.
RESOURCES
For a list of main LETS and other local currency resources and archive materials, please send an SAE to:
LETSLINK UK
2 Kent Street
Portsmouth
Hants P01 3BS
tel +44 (0)1705 730 639; fax +44 (0)1705 730 629
Five Basic Keys to a Successful LETS...