The North Laine Community Association (NLCA) has invited local residents to discuss its future role in the community as it struggles to attract new volunteers.

Founded as a charity in 1976 to promote the benefit of the inhabitants of North Laine, the NLCA has become an integral part of Brighton life, producing the free bi-monthly Runner newsletter and acting as an influential collective voice for residents at council level in issues such as planning and licensing.

However, in a heartfelt article which appeared on the Association’s website last week entitled Does the North Laine Community Association still have a role to play?, Peter Crowhurst, Vice Chair of the NLCA said: “The lack of people coming forward to volunteer themselves suggests that perhaps the local community no longer values the work that is done by the NLCA.”

He cites last month’s AGM to illustrate the issues facing the NLCA. At that meeting, no-one put themselves forward for the position of Chair or Secretary. Since Mr Crowhurst had served the maximum four years allowed as Chair under the NLCA Constitution he had to step down. The Constitution was then changed to allow him to become Vice-Chair so that meetings could continue.

Mr Crowhurst goes on to ask in the article: ”Yet who cares? If the NLCA did not exist, would it be missed? Or does it need to change to attract new residents? Or is it always the case that community groups are kept going by the few for the many, who nevertheless still appreciate the work done?”

Volunteers are especially needed to take up vital Committee positions and in helping with the popular Runner newsletter. If you wish to lend your services or join the debate go to the NLCA website through the link below and leave a comment.

by Davet Hyland