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 one page long, that describes who you are, why you would like to live communally in general and at MGC in particular, as well as what you have to offer the community.
- Please also state where you heard about us (e.g. on which website, through a friend or on a flyer in what place).
- It should be sent as a separate email attachment (preferably as a pdf file) - the email address is on the Contact us page.
This is followed by an invitation to an open afternoon (an "enquirer's tea").
If both the enquirer and the community wish to continue the process, then the enquirer is 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 those in the community who they did not meet in the first meal.
If an enquirer wishes to continue after the second meal, and if the community agrees, the next stage is to spend a week living in the community.
If an enquirer wishes to continue after the week stay, and if the community agrees, the enquirer can then apply to become a member of the community.
If accepted, the enquirer becomes a full member and can move in.
- Note that at each point of an application of every enquirer, community decisions are formally made at a community meeting. The content of these decisions - as with all other confidential content of community meetings - cannot be shared with the enquirer.
After moving in, there is a six-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, but we are currently finding ways to fast-track it . Nonetheless, if you are in urgent housing need, then 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.