Earlier in 2010, Midlands delegates had discussed "Valuing the Member". This conference, just for Area Association representatives, was about taking this forward.

The main items on the agenda were On Line Shopping and Common Subsidy Payments to Members.

On Line Shopping - delegates were syndicated to come up with a core list of offers that were common across the Region. Unsurprisingly, cinema tickets came out on top but the second was holiday homes. 4 Midlands Areas own 7 between them and they are offered out to members at highly reduced rates on the normal site fees. The idea of joining the CSSC On Line Shopping scheme was universally approved by those present. However, delegates wanted the chance to go back to their Areas, armed with more information, before a formal decision could be taken.

Common Subsidies - this agenda item was all about the Areas Associations signing up to pay the same travel and accommodation subsidies for Regional & National events, no matter where the member lives or works.
Previously, every AA had different policies and offered different grant levels. This was seen as unfair on the member as all pay the same subscription.

After some discussion, all present signed up to a Region wide policy and promised to abide by it i.e. pay no more or less than that agreed. They were also asked to consult their committees over setting up a "Hardship Fund" to be administered by the Regional Council. Basically, all AAs were asked to make a donation so that members from a couple of AAs would not be disadvantaged by the lack of funds e.g. where there is a clubhouse draining the Area money.

It is hoped that the Common Subsidy Policy will go live from 1 January 2011.