Join

Joining 3VA gives you access to an extensive local network of organisations serving the needs of people in Eastbourne, Lewes District and Wealden.

Our members range from some of the largest charities in East Sussex through to small community groups.

Benefits of membership include:

• Access to our full information and expert advice services
• Discounts on training courses
• Discounts on advertising jobs
• Being listed in our online members’ directory
• The chance to bring your voice into our decision-making and leadership processes
• The opportunity to help influence policies, plans and practices locally here in East Sussex

Full membership is open to voluntary and community groups working for the benefit of people in Eastbourne, Lewes District and Wealden with:

• a clearly defined purpose;
• a governing document such as set of rules or a constitution;
• a clear decision-making mechanism (e.g. a committee);
• appropriate financial records and a bank account in the name of the group or organisation with two unrelated signatories;
• all necessary insurances, such as public liability insurance;
• all necessary policies such as child protection, confidentiality, equal opportunities; and
• commitment to 3VA’s Statement of Values and Equal Opportunities.

Full membership is not available to groups with aims or objectives relating to party politics.

If you are unsure whether you would meet the membership criteria, please contact us so that we can help you achieve membership.

We offer unconstituted groups the opportunity to have a one year provisional membership during which time they can develop a governing document, appropriate financial records and a bank account, and necessary insurances and policies with our support. It may be possible to extend provisional membership beyond one year if appropriate, but this will be within the discretion of 3VA’s Board of Trustees.

Provisional membership is not available to groups with aims or objectives relating to party politics.

If you are unsure whether you would meet the membership criteria, please contact us so that we can help you achieve membership.

To start the process, you just need to complete an online application form, which should only take a few minutes.

Once submitted, you will receive confirmation that your application has been received. The community development officer for your area will then review your details and get in touch to discuss the next steps.