Stockport

 And well may you ask what this topic is doing here.  Like Neighbourhood Watch schemes or Stockport Living Streets, LETS can make neighbourhoods come alive.

LETS stands for local exchange trading system, a scheme whereby registered members trade goods and services, not with money but Hats (in Stockport, of course, to honour our Hatting history).   Some schemes use bobbins, others use washers, whatever the group agrees would be their local 'currency'.  There are many LETS up and down the country. We are fortunate, indeed, to have one in Stockport.

Schemes differ from place to place.  When you join LETS in Stockport, you pay £3 per annum and receive 50 Hats.  This is your starting 'capital'.  At that time you also register the goods or services you WANT and the goods or services you can OFFER.  And you can update your list at any time. Here are some examples:

WANT :  help with DIY : learn how to play the guitar : dog walking 

OFFER:  double bed : Indian cookery : bike repairs : French translations 

DIRECTORY of goods and services on offer or wanted is sent to members on a regular basis.  Any time you want to give or take what is on offer you contact the member and agree on an exchange of Hats.  You then inform LETS about your exchange.

A LETS is a friendly and safe way for people to help each other out.  There is no obligation to trade with anyone. If you would like to know more about LETS, visit their UK website HERE. 

At present, the group meets at Cheadle Heath Community Centre (Essex Street) every other month, usually on a Saturday around lunch-time. There is always good food on offer - everyone tries to bring something to the table.  It's a lively networking event but also a time when decisions are made about the group's activities.  An AGM takes place every Spring.  LETS in Stockport will soon have a proper website.  Until then you can ring Felicity on            0161 480 6061       if you want to know more or want to join the scheme.