How the DCA works

THE DUFFIELD COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

SUMMARY

The DCA is an Unincorporated Not for Profit Association set up in September 1972, and entirely run by volunteers from the village. It is a Charity (Charity Ref 502399) with Trustees and has a Constitution which is approved by the Charity Commission.

Making the DCA fit for the future, Dec 2025

The Duffield Community Association (DCA) held a Special General Meeting (SGM) on 1st December 2025 to vote upon a resolution for the DCA to convert to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) and to adopt an updated constitution aligning to the Charity Commission model for a CIO.

The move to becoming a CIO will have minimal effect on the day-to-day operations of the DCA, the changes will be at a governance level. The DCA will continue in its role to support the development of the community that is Duffield Village by, staging events, enhancing public areas, promoting volunteering and supporting other village groups with their projects.

Why the change? The DCA, a registered charity, was formed in 1972 under the auspices of the National Federation of Community Associations (NFRA), a body that was dissolved in 2017. Our current 53-year-old constitution follows the guidelines of the now defunct NFRA, its references are out of date and it no longer reflects current lifestyles.

Another driver for becoming a CIO is that currently the DCA Trustees can be held personally liable for the DCA’s activities – a powerful disincentive when looking for new trustees to continue the stewardship of the DCA.

DCA members and the representatives of all the DCA affiliated organisations attended the SGM voted unanimously for the proposal to convert to a CIO and adopt the updated constitution.

The minutes of the SGM can be found HERE

The back ground and proposal can be found HERE

The DCA is non political and non sectarian in religion

The financial year ends 31st December. The annual accounts are audited by an independent accountant. An AGM is held at which the Accounts are presented.

Objects as set out in the Constitution:

- To promote benefit to the inhabitants of Duffield in association with local authorities and other voluntary organisations by providing facilities for recreation, and leisure time occupation for all ages.
- To enhance the appearance of the village
- To establish or assist in setting up and maintaining a Community Centre in the village.

(Note: this was an objective 50 years ago but has less prominence now. A few years ago a questionnaire was circulated to Affiliate Groups who responded that they did not have a requirement for a village hall. Also it would be difficult to undertake because of the cost; lack of availability of premises; and the fact that under current law the Trustees would have personal liability for procurement and operation)

Funding

The DCA is funded by proceeds from the annual Duffield Carnival; from Membership subscriptions; and from Donations.

Whilst it has surplus funds currently, these are gradually being utilized, and it should be noted that subscriptions alone would not enable the DCA to function as intended.

HOW THE DCA OPERATES

DCA Council

In line with the Constitution, all decisions are made by the DCA Council, which is made up of representatives from Affiliate and Household Members; and elected Executive Committee Members.

Meetings are held at least 3 times/year. These are fully minuted and also supported by a Treasurer’s Report.

Decisions are made on recommendations put forward by the Executive Committee.

Executive Committee:

Up to 10 individuals including a Chairperson; Secretary and Treasurer all of whom are elected annually.

Meetings are held few months. Plus subcommittee meetings as required.

Carnival Committee

This is a sub committee of volunteers, some of whom are also on the Executive Committee.

Meetings are held as required throughout most of the year.

Membership

- Affiliate Members

Currently we have approximately 34 Affiliate Organisations, either based in or associated with the village.

Annual Affiliate membership is £10.

We aim to support Affiliate Organisations by way of providing available funds to contribute to Projects; Events; Items that will benefit Duffield residents.

Requests for funds have to be supported with a plan and costings. We don’t give general donations.

- Household Members

Currently approximately 500 households are DCA Members. This is approximately one fifth of the households in Duffield. Every household in the village is eligible to become a member by paying the appropriate fee

Annual membership for households in 2020 is £5

All members receive a monthly newsletter, but the main purpose of subscribing is to support the village.

To become a Member please e mail: enquiries.dca@outlook.com. Mark the e mail-Membership