LETSlink Scotland - Local Systems

Falkirk district LETS

Who are we?
We are a Local Exchange Trading System covering the Falkirk district area in Central Scotland. There are about 170 individuals and organisations on the system offering a range of offers from dog-walking to the hire of a mini-excavator! We trade 'Carrons' which are named after a local river which cuts through the district and also the Carron Iron Works which used to be a major feature of the area in the industrial past.

Photo of trading event
Falkirk district LETS trade fayre

How did we get started?
The LETS was set up with the help and support of a development project funded by Falkirk Council and European Regional Development Fund for the regeneration of deprived urban areas. The project began in January 1998 and by April 1998 a district wide LETS had been launched. The project is still going to help support and develop the LETS, but the LETS itself is run as an independent organisation with it's own 'Trustee' management group elected from the membership.

What happens on Fd-LETS?
Fd-LETS is fairly typical of many LETS in Scotland. A directory of goods and services is produced and circulated to members, member accounts are kept on computer, social events and Trade Fayres are organised. Trade Fayres are markets where members can buy and sell things for Carrons.
 
In addition, we have a cafe which opens on a Saturday in the Old Sheriff Court building in Falkirk. Members can pay part Carrons and part cash for food and drink. Members coming to work in the café also get paid in Carrons for their help. During the week there is a catering training course for people with special needs.

Second photo of trading event
More trading

How you can get involved…
Contact the LETS development project on 01324 636571 or by email if you live in the area. Mark or Sandra can give you advice on how to get involved. Alternatively drop into the Old Sheriff Court during the weekday or visit the cafe on a Saturday which is open between 10-3.

 

http://www.letslinkscotland.org.uk