Groups are autonomous and that means kin.coop is not responsible for the behaviour of people in your group. If a member breaks kin.coop's rules or code of conduct, they will have their membership suspended or terminated but that might be too late for your group.
Make a group agreement
Having a group agreement can help to build trust and prevent against issues by making it clear that it doesn't pay to free-ride. In the UK, a written or even spoken agreement can be used as evidence in a civil court.
Example questions and answers
Here are some of the most important questions you might want to answer in your group agreement:
What happens if you are unable to contribute?
Example answer: if you are unable to contribute within 14 days of the regular date, you must notify the group. If you fail to contribute without notifying the group, then you may be asked to settle the balance and to leave the group immediately and/or be expected to make an extra 10% payment.
When can you leave the group?
Example answer: you cannot leave the group if you have received more than you have contributed except under special circumstances and only then by resolution of 75% of the whole group.
Who can join the group?
Example answer: if a new person wishes to join the group, it must be agreed by everyone even if they are taking the place of a group member who is leaving. Alternative answer: the admin approves new members and guarantees their trustworthiness.
More:
In some groups you may also want to specify:
- the amount members are expected to contribute;
- how often;
- how decisions are made about money requests;
- and how group agreements and other rules are made or changed.
A group agreement can be the difference between a happy community and a broken one
Having trouble with your group or thinking about your group agreement? Contact us at info@kin.coop