Kilfinan Community Forest Membership Terms

Welcome to Kilfinan Community Forest (KCFC). By becoming a member, you are joining a community-led initiative dedicated to the long-term care, conservation and sustainable management of nearly 600 hectares of woodland in Kilfinan, Tighnabruaich. KCFC is a Scottish private company limited by guarantee (Company No. SC333208), registered and regulated as a Scottish charity. It operates for community benefit and is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. Membership ensures that the local community has a voice in how the forest is managed.

These Membership Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) set out the rights, responsibilities and expectations of all KCFC members. By joining you agree to abide by these Terms.

2. KCFC’s Mission and Values

KCFC is committed to:

  • Conserving and enhancing the forest and its wildlife.
  • Promoting responsible forestry and land management.
  • Providing opportunities for education, learning and recreation.
  • Engaging the local community and fostering participation in decision-making.
  • Encouraging sustainable use of resources and respect for the natural environment.

As a member, you support this mission and help shape the future of KCFC.

3. Membership Categories

Ordinary Membership – Free; open to all residents aged 18 or over who are entitled to vote in local and national elections. Offers full voting rights at General Meetings and eligibility to serve as a Director.

Junior Membership – Free; for local residents aged 12–17. Provides opportunities to participate in events and learning activities, without voting rights.

Associate Membership – Open to part-time residents or supporters who do not live locally but wish to support KCFC’s mission. Voting rights may be limited.

Application: To become a member, individuals must complete and sign the KCFC Membership Form and agree to these Terms. Membership is confirmed upon receipt of the completed form by the KCFC Membership Secretary.

4. Rights of Members

As a member, you are entitled to:

  • Attend and vote at General Meetings (where applicable).
  • Stand for election to the Board of Directors (Ordinary Members only).
  • Receive updates on KCFC activities, events and initiatives.
  • Participate in volunteering, educational and recreational opportunities.
  • Contribute ideas and feedback to support the forest and community.

5. Responsibilities of Members

Members are expected to:

  • Respect the forest, its wildlife and its users.
  • Act in accordance with KCFC’s mission and values.
  • Uphold a friendly, inclusive and supportive community spirit.
  • Follow all health, safety and environmental guidelines while on KCFC land.
  • Represent KCFC positively when engaging with the wider public.

6. Code of Conduct

Members agree to:

  • Treat all other members, volunteers, staff and visitors with respect and courtesy.
  • Avoid behaviour that could harm KCFC’s reputation or operations.
  • Not engage in discrimination, harassment, or intimidation of any kind.
  • Follow KCFC rules regarding the use of forest land, facilities and equipment.
  • Respect the privacy and personal data of fellow members.

KCFC reserves the right to revoke membership in cases of serious misconduct or repeated breaches of the code of conduct.

7. Volunteering and Participation

Members are encouraged to participate in practical forest management, events and community activities. Volunteering is entirely voluntary and members undertake such activities at their own risk. KCFC will provide guidance, training and necessary safety information where applicable.

8. Data Protection and Privacy

KCFC will process personal data in line with UK data protection law (UK GDPR). Your information will be used to:

  • Maintain membership records.
  • Communicate news, events and updates.
  • Facilitate voting and participation in KCFC activities.

KCFC will not share your personal information with third parties without your consent except where legally required. Members may request access to their data or have it corrected or removed at any time.

9. Termination of Membership

Membership may be ended by:

  • Resignation by the member (by written notice to KCFC).
  • Revocation by KCFC for serious misconduct, breaches of these Terms, or actions contrary to KCFC’s mission.

Upon termination, all rights and privileges associated with membership cease immediately. Membership fees (if any) are non-refundable.

10. Liability

Membership in KCFC does not create a contractual relationship beyond these Terms. Members participate in activities and enter the forest at their own risk. KCFC accepts no liability for injury, loss, or damage arising from membership activities, except where required by law.

11. Amendments

KCFC reserves the right to amend these Terms. Members will be notified of any changes in advance and continued membership constitutes acceptance of updated Terms.

12. Cost

Membership to KCFC costs £1 and exists for the lifetime of your membership and is non refundable.

13. Agreement

By completing and signing the KCFC Membership Form, you confirm that you:

  • Have read, understood and agree to abide by these Terms.
  • Support KCFC’s mission and values.
  • Consent to the processing of your personal data as described above.