how to... start a csm branch

HELPING CSM TO GROW

CSM Secretary DAVID CANNING outlines an exciting model for helping CSM extend its influence - and proof that it works

Have you ever thought about forming a branch of CSM in your area – or helping an existing branch to expand?

The benefits of branches
Vibrant CSM branches exist already in some parts of the country and we want to encourage these to continue. However, most CSM members do not have a local branch nearby. As Christians on the left of politics, we need to support each other. A common experience is that of not being accepted in either our churches or in our local Labour Parties. Your Executive Committee strongly believes that every member, should be able to share fellowship in a local branch and that part of the function of a local branch is to provide a space for CSM members and interested non-members to worship, pray and work together to promote Christian Socialist values in their locality.

The ‘Essex’ Model
This is precisely the model of CSM branch that has gone from strength to strength in Essex. This so-called ‘Essex’ model is a new approach to branch organisation and one that the Executive Committee strongly urges you to consider using to create a new branch in your area.

The key elements that make the Essex model work are-

It does not have a rigid constitutional framework but rather operates around an organic network of like-minded people
It is a highly effective tool for recruiting new members to CSM
It provides a practical means of mutual support for Christians on the left of politics

The steps to setting up a branch in this way are-

From your own personal network (church, Labour Party, trade union, etc) identify people who may be interested in joining you. At this stage these may be either CSM members or non-members
Arrange an initial meeting to explain what is proposed and to explain CSM to any non-members who join you. If possible the Executive Committee’s Regional Representative for your area or another member of the Executive Committee should be invited to join you to assist with this.
Agree how meetings are to be organised and run, including the elements of worship, sharing, praying for each other, practical action and discussion of issues
As your meetings settle into a pattern of frequency and attendance, you may wish to appoint an organiser of secretary and a person to chair your meetings, and agree when you want to review this (e.g. in a years time)
As new people join you, they should be encouraged to identify people in their network who may wish to join you also
In time, people who attend regularly and who are not members of CSM should be strongly encouraged to join CSM

Remember: the important principle is that the branch is based around an organic network of people. In this way it will grow and new members will be recruited to CSM. In Essex the majority of the members now attending were recruited through attending branch meetings.

The branch does not have to be tied to a single town or city, constituency, district or county. It should find its own natural balance after a period of time. Essex has members from all over the county but also some from beyond.

You will need to agree certain basic principles to ensure your organisation remains effective, but focusing activity around people rather than around a strict constitutional framework will ensure the branch works for everyone’s benefit. In Essex the branch does not hold a formal Annual General Meeting but rather agreed a date on which it annually reviews which members take on which role.

Where to get help
My colleagues on the Executive Committee, and I, are on hand to give you help and advice - please contact us through the CSM office. But do let me know if you are planning to organise a branch in your area in any event so I can keep track of where these are being organised. A Regional Representative (a member of the Executive Committee) may also be appointed to help you.

Affiliation to the Labour Party
When the branch is reasonably settled, you may wish to consider affiliation to one or more Constituency Labour Parties. This helps ensure Christian Socialist values are championed in the Labour Party. The CSM Office can give you more information about affiliation.

May God bless your efforts, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Dave Canning, 12/03/2009