Members of access groups often give their time and services freely and without obligation, and many receive no payment for their work. This is an issue that is currently being addressed, because the work that access groups carry out is both valuable and vital to their communities.

We hope that as people using access groups’ services start to really appreciate the value of those services, funding and payment will become much more commonplace. However, at the very least, access group members should be reimbursed for any expenses they incur as they carry out their work for any organisation.

Access group members play a crucial role in setting up and fulfilling the aims of access groups. They are responsible for the overall management of the group and also play a vital part in providing services. Although we hope to get to the point where every access group member’s contribution is recognised through financial recompense, you may find that in the meantime your group has to rely on members volunteering their time in return for expenses.

This section discusses some of the ways in which groups can draw in members who will bring not only enthusiasm but also a range of skills and experience to the group.