[Rosemary]

Are pretty much all crofters members of SCF? At least, are the ones on here members?

Membership is £50 a year but there are quite wide ranging benefits. Is that why folk join?

[Treud na Mara]

We joined more than a year before we got a croft. So we had access to advice and also the possibility of finding out when crofts came up for rent or purchase. Our experience is that they are lovely people and in the end found someone who was willing to mentor us with our Heinz 57 flock of sheep. In some areas they do seem to have meetings, but not hereabouts so far. They also run excellent courses on various topics which are at much reduced prices for members. I feel it's money well spent so far. And you can even pay monthly 

[Hamish Crofter]

I'm a member and my experiences of the SCF have always been good. Their courses are good and there is quite a good support network. Importantly they are a strong voice when it comes to government policy and reform.

[fiestyredhead331]

we joined recently, as far as I know we're the only ones in this parish.
They run some good courses but the produce mark was the biggest incentive for us personally. Their magazine is quite good, we were asked to write an article for the next edition about what we are doing on our croft.
The only negative we've found so far, and I mean it in the nicest possible way, is that while the staff are helpful, some of them are not that well informed about crofting matters so had conflicting advice or had to wait for them to get advice from those in the know.
They also offer a legal helpline (initial consultation free) which can come in handy
and as Hamish says, they are quite proactive on matters affecting crofters

[crofter 65]

I have been a member for 25 years, in the beginning it was the crofters union, I have not used any of the benefits for a long time.

[fiestyredhead331]

maybe you should ask for a refund crofter65?.....

[fiestyredhead331]

For anyone who is a member and recently received their 'Crofter' magazine, we have a feature on page 9 

[oor wullie]

Not a member yet but having had a chat with them at the gathering last weekend we have decided that we will join.