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Introduction:

Many Fishermen are already part of local groups or organisations. But some feel their voices aren’t really being heard. Others may not be represented at all. Some organisations are set up from the top down. That means the rules and goals are decided first—before fishermen are even asked to join.

 

A Fishermen-led organisation works differently. It must be built from the bottom up, with fishermen involved from the very beginning. This guide is here to help you understand how to create an organisation that truly represents Fishermen—because it’s made by Fishermen.

Introduction – Continued:

In a Fishermen-led organisation:

  • Fishermen help shape the rules and the goals.
  • Every fisherman gets a vote.
  • The board of directors is chosen by Fishermen.
  • Workstreams are decided by the Fishermen.
  • Engagement is essential-representatives must show they are listening to the people they speak for.
  • Members being active and attending meetings is a key part of membership.
  • Members engaging with the CIC and providing regular information and updates to the Board and CEO, is another key part of membership.

This guide will take you step by step through the process of building an organisation that gives fishermen real ownership, real voice, and real power.

 

By following a clear and open process, you can build a strong and trusted organisation. One that genuinely speaks for fishermen-because it’s run by them. This helps make sure you are not just claiming to represent fishermen but can actually show how their views and voices are being heard and acted on.That’s the difference between real representation and just saying it.

Engagement Timeline:

We estimated 3-4 months for engagement. Over the course of these months, the action plan was to:

  • Put up social media posts.
  • Put up notices for quayside visits to talk about a fishermen led organisation.
  • When visiting ports, always check the weather and try to determine when the vessels will be launching and Many times we have been to quayside at 6 am to see vessels off, then back again around 7 pm – 8pm, for vessels returning.
  • We researched venues to hold evening meetings monthly meetings to discuss the idea and gauge interest. We were lucky to obtain funding so we could hold meetings at a local fishing college, but had there been a charge, it would have been £50 for 2-hour venue.

We would recommend researching:

  • Council venues that may be available for free.
  • You could speak to council and explain what you are doing, see if they can recommend somewhere, or if they have any funding to support the initiative.
  • Local football clubs to see if they have space available.
  • Contact local Fisherman’s associations, see if they can recommend them anywhere.
  • Put social media posts up asking for recommendations for venues that do not charge.
  • What days/times to hold meetings. (We always try to hold meetings in the evenings, Fishermen need to work during the The worse the weather, the better the attendance. That’s why we prefer January and early February if a daytime meeting is necessary but try to avoid holding meetings in June -August).