We now have 3 distinct categories of membership.

Tenants & Residents Association Groups (TRA’s) – Open to all Sandwell based TRA groups who are registered with Sandwell Homes.

Individual Membership – Anyone resident within the borough of Sandwell can apply to become an individual member of SCIPS – irrespective of whether they are a Council tenant or a private householder or tenant.

Community Group Membership – From October 2006 we now have a new category of membership! Any local group who are either Sandwell based or whose prime beneficiaries live in the borough can apply for membership provided the group has a written constitution (which includes an Equal Opportunities Statement), holds an AGM and has an elected committee. We are happy for the group to be either a membership organisation or a representative structure provided the group meets the above requirements.

What does membership cost? All 3 categories of membership are entirely free, however as a member there is a Limited Liability Guarantee – which means members of SCIPS (groups and individuals) are legally be bound to contribute £1 to the Sandwell Community Information and Participation Service Ltd but ONLY in the event of the company being wound up.

How to apply for membership In the first instance simply call us on 0121 544 1230 or email us at enquiries@scips.org.uk and we will post an appropriate application pack to you. Please do remember though to tell us which category of membership you wish to apply for.

Membership Benefits Include: Free Monthly newsletter. Access to online FunderFinder subscription software. Cheap printing & photocopying. Access to IT equipped Resource Centre & Meeting Room facilities. Wireless Internet equipped laptop loan scheme. Automatic invitation to General Meetings & AGM. Opportunities for promotion and networking with others. Access to advice and advocacy.