Built on fairness, structure, and shared responsibility
Shared ownership only works when there are clear rules and a fair system behind it.
SharedAcres is designed to be:
- Transparent
- Democratic
- Well-managed
So every member knows:
- What to expect
- What’s expected of them
- How decisions are made
How decisions are made
Simple, fair, and member-led
SharedAcres operates as a UK cooperative.
The core principle:
One member = one vote
- Voting power is not linked to money or shares
- No individual can dominate decisions
Types of Decisions
Major decisions (e.g. buying land)
- Voted on by members
Day-to-day decisions
- Managed by an elected group
Elected Committee
A small group of members (typically 5–7 people) is responsible for:
- Overseeing operations
- Managing finances
- Coordinating land use and maintenance
- Keeping members informed
They act on behalf of the group – not above it
Member responsibilities
Shared ownership comes with shared responsibility
All members agree to a basic set of expectations when joining.
Respect the Land
- Leave it in good condition
- Avoid damage or misuse
- Follow environmental guidelines
Respect Other Members
- Be considerate of shared access
- Avoid disruptive behaviour
- Use spaces fairly
Use the Land Responsibly
- Follow site-specific guidelines
- Respect permitted activities
- Follow any safety or legal requirements
Guests and Usage
- Guests may be allowed (depending on the site)
- Members remain responsible for their guests
These aren’t complex rules – just common-sense expectations that protect everyone
Clear structure = less conflict
Why this matters
Without structure, shared ownership can quickly become difficult.
SharedAcres avoids this by having:
- Defined roles
- Clear processes
- Agreed rules from the start
This reduces confusion and prevents disputes
Formal agreements
Not informal – properly structured
Membership is supported by clear, legally backed agreements.
These define:
- Member rights
- Usage rules
- Responsibilities
- Processes for resolving issues
This ensures everything is clear and enforceable from the start
If issues arise
Handled fairly and consistently
While most members will align naturally, a clear process is in place if problems occur.
Step 1 – Warning
The issue is raised, with guidance on how to resolve it
Step 2 – Formal Notice
A written notice outlining the issue and required action
Step 3 – Review
The situation is reviewed by the elected committee
Step 4 – Membership Removal (Last Resort)
If necessary, the member may be required to leave through a structured share buyback
This process is:
- Proportionate
- Transparent
- Consistent
Leaving the cooperative
A clear and fair exit process
Members are free to leave – but it’s managed to protect the group.
How it works:
- You request to leave
- Your shares are offered to existing members
- Then offered to new members (waiting list)
- The co-op may buy back shares (if reserves allow)
Key points:
- Shares are typically returned at or near original value
- Immediate payout is not guaranteed
- Buybacks may be staged or delayed
This avoids financial strain on the cooperative
Why this structure works
Balanced and realistic
SharedAcres is built on three things:
Trust
Attracting like-minded members
Structure
Clear rules and governance
Accountability
A system to handle issues if they arise
This ensures:
- No single member can disrupt the group
- The land remains protected
- Members feel secure in their involvement
Member contribution
More than just financial
Members are encouraged – but not required – to contribute time.
Examples:
- Land maintenance
- Site improvements
- Community work days
Flexible approach:
- Participation is optional
- Different contributions are valued (time, skills, support)
- No pressure or strict requirements
This keeps things fair and inclusive
In simple terms
Here’s how it works:
- Everyone has an equal say
- Rules are clear from the start
- Issues are handled properly if they arise
- You can leave through a structured process
It’s designed to be fair, stable, and low-friction
Feel confident in how it’s run?
If the structure makes sense and feels right to you: