Constitution

A. NAME

The group’s name is: DONCASTER HACK AND MAKERSPACE

B. THE PURPOSES OF THE GROUP ARE

• To learn and teach skills including woodworking, metalworking, 3D printing, electronics, and other making.
• To provide a location, tools, equipment, and materials to exercise the above skills.
• To provide a space that enables socialising.

C. CARRYING OUT THE PURPOSES

In order to carry out the purposes, the Committee has the power to:

• Raise funds, receive grants, and donations.
• Buy or sell property, take on leases, and employ staff.
• Co-operate with and support other groups with similar purposes.
• Do anything else within the law which is necessary to achieve the purposes.

D. MEMBERSHIP

The Committee may admit to membership anybody aged 18 and over who supports the purposes of the group. In some cases, we will allow 14 - 18-year-olds to become members with the requirement that a parent/guardian is also a member and is present at all times. People who wish to become a member should apply to the Committee. At least one member of the committee will have an informal discussion with the applicant to discuss the membership. Membership lasts for one month and may be renewed. The Committee will keep an up-to-date membership list. This list will be used to inform members about AGMs and other meetings as well as emergency contact details (should they be needed). If a member leaves the group, all details will be deleted within one month. The Committee may expel someone from membership, provided it is in the best interest of the group to do so, and they are given the right to be heard by the Committee before the decision is made. They can be accompanied by a friend.

E. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - AGM

• The AGM must be held every year, with 14 days' notice given to all members telling them what is on the agenda.
• There must be at least 5 members present at the AGM.
• The Committee shall present the annual report and accounts.

F. COMMITTEE

• The Committee shall hold at least 3 meetings each year. They will elect a chair, treasurer, and secretary at their first meeting.
• At least 3 Committee members must be at a committee meeting to be able to make decisions. Minutes shall be kept for every meeting.
• The Committee must keep accounts which may be viewed by any member on request.
• During the year, the Committee may appoint up to 2 extra members onto the Committee who will stand down at the next AGM.
• The Committee may make reasonable additional rules for the proper conduct and management of the group. These rules must not conflict with this constitution or the law.
• Currently elected Committee members are:
  • Chair: Stephan Gerlach
  • Treasurer: Richard Pettigrew
  • Secretary: Rebecca Pettigrew

G. MONEY

• Funds must be held in the group’s bank account. All cheques must be signed by 2 Committee members.
• Funds cannot be used to pay Committee members except to refund legitimate expenses.
• Funds and property must only be used for the purposes of the group.

H. SPECIAL GENERAL MEETINGS

Special General Meetings may be called by the Committee for the following reasons. All members must be given 14 days' notice and told what change is proposed.

• Changing the Constitution - The constitution may be changed by a two-thirds majority of members present and voting at a Special General Meeting.
• Emergency Special General Meetings – to allow the members to decide on important issues.
• Winding up – The group may be wound up by a two-thirds majority of members present and voting at a Special General Meeting. Any money or property remaining after payment of debts must be given to a group with similar (charitable) purposes.

I. SETTING UP THE GROUP

This constitution was adopted on 23.02.2024 by the people whose signatures appear below. They will be the Committee until the first AGM, which must be held within one year of this date.