Frequently Asked Questions

 

Who will own Fordhall Farm once it has been purchased?

Fordhall Farm will be purchased by The Fordhall Community Land Initiative, which is owned by the community - its shareholders.

The Initiative is incorporated as an Industrial and Provident Society and registered as an exempt charity, meaning it qualifies for Gift Aid.

The farmland and farm house will subsequently be leased to the Hollins family who will continue to be tenants at Fordhall.

The educational aspects of the project such as the bunk house and the exhibition area will be owned and run by the Fordhall Community Land Initiative at Fordhall.

This unique structure allows the community to own Fordhall Farm and to enjoy its landscape and educational properties, as well as providing security for the farmer and an opportunity for future farmers to have affordable access to farmland.

 

How big is Fordhall Farm?

128 acres of Fordhall Farm is for sale at £800,000. A further 12 acres will be offered back to the Initiative on a renewable lease until the land owners decide what they will do with it. Fordhall is completely pasture and currently rears beef, lamb and pork which is all sold through the farm shop. This farm business is run by Charlotte and Ben Hollins as a private enterprise. The farm is not currently registered under an organic symbol due to the pressures faced over the years; however the farm has been chemical free for over 65 years. There are plans to recertify the farm once security has been achieved.

The farm is bounded by the river Tern and includes undisturbed woodland, wetlands, pools, streams, hedges, and grasslands. It is a haven for wildlife and provides great weekend walks.

 

Who's involved with the Initiative?

The Initiative was founded by the Hollins Family in 2003 (see project origins for more info). In 2005, Charlotte (Project Leader) and Ben Hollins (Farm Manager) were joined by Project Manager Sophie Hopkins (age 24) and now there are many hundred of volunteers and organisations supporting the project.

A skilled committee board created from existing shareholders has also been created to help guide the project. For more information on these people see "Who Are We".

 

How does the Share Scheme work?

Shares are £50 each. Shares are non-transferable but can be left to the next generation in a Will. There is no limit to the number of shares one person can own, but they will hold only one vote regardless of the volume of shares. This means the society remains completely democratic. Shares are refundable upon request; this is at the discretion of the board and may result in the figure being paid back in instalments if necessary.

Shares allow YOU to part own Fordhall Farm.

 

Can I buy shares for children under the age of 16?

If a shareholder is under the age of 16 the certificate can be made with a guardian’s name on behalf of the intended shareholder. A new certificate will be issued once the shareholder has reached this threshold. If you are buying shares online please make sure that all neccessary details are on the application form. Feel freet o use the comments box if necessary.

 

How can I help?

• To become a shareholder: These are non-profit making but allow part ownership of Fordhall Farm and of course a vote at the AGM.
• To make a donation: It is possible to make any size of donation to the campaign and it still qualifies for Gift Aid- a double bonus! This could also be a tax relief opportunity for businesses. There is an option for donations on the share application forms.
• To give an interest-free loan: These are for a period of 5 years and do not have an upper or lower limit. It is at the discretion of the board to refuse an application. Through an interest-free loan you are helping our pioneering campaign to succeed whilst providing security for your money. There is an option for an expression of interest on the share application form. We will contact you with further details.
• To tell others: The power of personal recommendations is priceless. It is easy to send the link to the website to friends and colleges or to request share application leaflets to hand out (click here to download a leaflet). Sending out large numbers of leaflets does not cost the Initiative because they are printed free by our district council so request away!
• To write an article: If the passion to write seizes you please scribe away. Your piece could be used in local or national press or could feature in our newsletter. We try to feature personal accounts on why people are supporting us in each newsletter so your contribution will help us enormously!
• Other: There are a number of other ways to help, from offering your skills to attending a working weekend and meeting others involved. We are also always on the search for office equipment such as computers and software and tools for working weekends!

 

What happens to my money if it fails?

Despite being a very remote and disappointing option, it is only fair prospective shareholders are aware of the financial implications. On the share application form there are four options of the money if it needs to be reallocated. It could be returned to self minus administration costs, donated to Shropshire Wildlife Trust, Harvest Help or Friends of the Earth. All the charities were chosen because they reflect the ethos held by the Fordhall Community Land Initiative.

 

What happens if the project fails in the future?

Under the rules of the society no individual can profit from the Initiative. If for any reason the Initiative comes into financial difficulty and needs to later sell the land, shareholders can have their share monies returned, but they can not receive any profits. All additional monies must go towards a project of a similar nature and with the same charitable aims and objectives as the society. Similarly, shareholders are only liable for the money that they invest in shares. In no way can debtors reclaim any money from you personally.

 

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Find Out More: How Can You Help?