Rural Action Derbyshire Sylvia Green CEO

RAD Mission To improve the quality of life for Derbyshire residents by empowering people in rural communities to; take action address disadvantage become more sustainable increase local control.

Wirksworth Swimming Pool

Background Learner pool Derbyshire Dales District Council Initial evaluation 2009 Politics Pool passed into community management April 2012 Business model 140 – 360 swimming lessons p.w

Protestors to Trustees Time – 2 years Evolving group of people Information Confidence Engagement Planning

Information How does the pool operate now? What can be improved? What could go wrong? What are the trustees responsibilities? Examples of this working elsewhere? Finances Employment / TUPE

Timing Don’t expect too much commitment at the start Tell them what the process is Tell them they have a free choice Its opt in – not opt out. Tell them when they will need to decide

Additionality Users’ perspective Focus is on the pool Greater community engagement Local contacts / networks Additional specialist input – eg marketing Diverse team of volunteers

Success factors Wirksworth community Emotional attachment to the pool Political & practical support No TUPE issues Physical upgrade at an early stage Trustee skills & reputations Key Staff Communication