When talking about Members in this context, we are talking about the Members of the Co-operative (who pay a support fee to make decisions about the running of the co-op) , as opposed to paying members of the gym, or attendees (who pay a monthly payment in order to access classes).
The co-op members are one of the most integral parts of Bristol Co-operative Gym, informing the running of the Gym and personalising it to what they want. These are based on the collective discussions with other members, and decision making that they’ll very much be a part of, and benefit from to help determine the future of the gym.
The pay-what-you-can co-operative membership fees, along with class monthly membership fees help the gym have a more solid income.
Click for more information on signing up for and terminating membership.
Members and attendees are free to train in a supportive, respectful environment that is free from judgement, body-shaming, comments about their appearance, performance or abilities. By attending sessions and/or becoming a member, you agree to these principles.
It is a condition of membership to attend a minimum of 2 meetings a year and we ask that they take an active interest in the operation and development of the co-operative by helping out, something that is written into our signed rules, page 5 - ‘Member Commitment’: Incorporation & signed rules
All co-operative members hold a £1 share in the gym as part of their initial membership fee.
Once you have completed the application and paid the Co-operative a membership fee, your name will go on the membership register and you will have rights within the co-op. This includes the right to all decision making, including voting rights. Members are expected to be involved in all major decisions and actions affecting BCG and to participate in its operations, with the option of taking part in discussions and voting remotely.
It is your responsibility to read and understand this document and our Code of Conduct and to seek help or advice from other members, coaches or directors in cases where you are unsure. Everyone is expected to abide by the Code of Conduct and coaches are responsible for ensuring the Code of Conduct is adhered to in sessions. Directors are responsible for ensuring coaches uphold the Code of Conduct, using feedback from members and attendees and following up any complaints made through the Complaints procedure (more on this later).
Members are also expected to attend at least 2 meetings, either remotely or in person, per year in keeping with the Terms of Participation (see below).
We welcome ideas but sometimes struggle with volunteer capacity to bring all the good ideas to fruition - so if you have an idea you'd like to put forward, maybe for a new class or workshop etc. post your idea as a new thread on Loomio to put it up for discussion. If the idea gains traction, it can be added for discussion at an ops meeting (member bringing forward the proposal should attend meeting.)
For more info on how to get involved: Ad Hoc Helper
The money from co-op members fees and attendees fees all goes toward paying for coaches, rent for the space the co-op hires out at St. Anne’s House, insurance and technology (for instance, the TeamUp website for bookings and the pro account for Google Workspace). It also pays for accountancy, admin and equipment.
In addition to the collection of online support material found on the Google Drive, other members and directors will be available to answer questions you may have and questions can be asked at sessions and on our digital discussion platform, Loomio.
Click to learn more about the onboarding process and how to onboard new members.
Click to learn more about sessions run by members, such as Open Gym sessions and PB & Pizza (Personal Best & Pizza).