January Members Update
Important Notice
Extraordinary General Meeting:
We would like to remind you that our EGM will take place tomorrow:
Tuesday, 1st February at 7.00PM, Bellfield
The EGM is being called to consider a Special Resolution which if supported, will convert Action Porty from a limited company with charitable status, to a community benefit society with charitable status.
A community benefit society is a form of co-operative, and conversion to this form of organisation will enable Action Porty to raise money through a community share issue. All the money raised through this community share issue will be invested in the next phase of the upgrading and physical re-development of Bellfield. For more information about community shares click here.
Action Porty seeks to convert to a community benefit society, in a way which will:
ensure that Action Porty retains its charitable status
ensure that Action Porty remains a community-led organisation
ensure that Action Porty continues to be eligible for various community rights
Community Shares Scotland has been supporting Action Porty to develop an appropriate set of rules for our conversion to a community benefit society. These rules will become the new governance document for Action Porty, and they retain the charitable purposes within our current articles, and reflect the principles and- as much as possible- operational practice of the current organisation. These rules can be accessed on our website: Proposed New AP Ben Com Rules.
All members of Action Porty are invited to attend the EGM either in person or on Proxy. If you are voting by proxy, or would like to ask us to take your proxy vote into account please let us know by email: friendsofbellfield@gmail.com
NOTE: The EGM obviously has to be quorate, and because it is a special resolution it will require 75% support from those voting.
Bellfield Neighbours Meeting:
Bellfield Neighbours were invited to a meeting on Thursday 27 January to discuss the venue's operations, as well as actions on and outcomes of recent feedback from its neighbourhood, and changes to our working practices.
Board member Ian Cooke, gave a thorough presentation which was met with an overwhelmingly positive response from almost all present who were appreciative of Bellfield effort in being inclusive and welcoming.
Activities at Bellfield:
Our classes have resumed and we are now operating Bellfield to nearly full capacity with plenty of activities for all to enjoy.
Our anchor tenant, Edinburgh Youth Theatre, continues to provides classes for all age groups whilst ensuring all necessary safety measures are being observed. We also welcomed back our regular users as well as some new users, offering a wide range of classes including, Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, Judo, Knitting for All, Craft & Natter, Song Space, Scouts, Baby Massage & yoga, Quakers and various choirs and music groups.
Click on the links to find out more about our classes & hirers.
New Volunteer Co-ordinator:
Last but not least, we are very pleased to announce that Ella Lees has joined Bellfield as our new volunteer co-ordinator administrator. We extend a heartfelt welcome to her as she begins her journey with us. You will no doubt learn more about Ella in our February Newsletter.
Gifts By Donation:
You generosity keeps us going. As a charity, we rely on your donations (one off or regular) to enable us to support Bellfield and make a difference to the community of Portobello. Don't forget that, in addition to gifts by donation, you can find out more about ways to donate here.
Lastly you can also support us each time you shop on Amazon, then please use AmazonSmile and Amazon will donate to Action Porty, at no cost to you.