How to join

The application procedure is designed to ensure that we all get to know each other before a final decision is reached.

First we ask all enquirers to write us a letter
This should be at least 1 page long, saying something about yourself, why you would like to live communally in general and at MGC in particular, as well as what you have to offer the community.
It should be sent as a separate email attachment (.doc or .pdf) or by post. Addresses are on the Contact page.
This is followed by an invitation to an open afternoon.
If both the community and the enquirer wish to continue the process, you are then invited to a meal.
An enquirer wishing to continue after the first meal, and if the community agrees, will be invited to attend a second meal. This is to ensure they have the opportunity to meet everyone.
The next stage is to spend a week living in the community.
The enquirer can then apply, and a consensus decision about their application is reached at a meeting.
If accepted the enquirer becomes a full member and can move in.
After moving in there is a 6 month transition period involving informal 1:1 meetings with every other member to foster new relationships and give opportunities for any potential issues to be addressed. The completion of this period is celebrated with a meal.

This process usually takes at least 8-12 months, so if you are in urgent housing need we recommend you find somewhere you can stay for at least that long before applying.

Because we aim to be a relatively stable community, and it takes time and energy to join and get to know the ropes, we ask all new members to make a commitment to stay for two years.