If you want to start a chapter in the UK, follow these simple steps.

Find out if there is an existing chapter near you.

  1. Fill out our chapter registration form below and agree to the chapter terms and policies
  2. Pay your £35 yearly chapter dues. Since SFT UK is a grassroots organization devoted to Tibet, we are heavily dependent on financial support from individual members and chapters. Once your fees are paid, we will send you a chapter packet with all sorts of goodies, from stickers and buttons to our newsletter and pamphlets, brochures and information.
  3. You will then receive a welcome pack from SFT UK including brochures, stickers, and materials and ideas to run your chapter. There are already some great resources online here.
  4. Gain official recognition at your uni! Each uni has a slightly different system of getting recognized by the Student Union. Visit the Student Union Office and express your interest in making your group an official entity.
  5. Organize your first event! Even if you may feel that interest on campus is low, a modestly successful first event is a magical way to boost your chapter’s membership. Check out event ideas here.

And remember, keep in touch with SFT UK, we are here anytime to help you with your chapter, or answer any questions you may have. We’re run by a handful of volunteers but we like working closely with uni groups- you’re the backbone of the movement, so we’re always happy to hear from you! If you’re not in uni, you can still get active, so contact us about ideas to start a group or get involved. Whether you want to start a group or want to know more, you can email us at:pema@sftuk.org

You can read more in the 2011-2012 term fresher pack, which can be viewed below or downloaded:

Every year, SFT UK holds a grassroots conference, which are normally hosted by one of our university chapters. It’s a great place to meet other group members and the SFT UK board, and there’s interactive training including strategic planning, campaigns, fundraising, media and practical non-violent direct action workshops. Conference generally takes place in the spring, but there are SFT UK events throughout the year and SFT HQ also runs week-long action camps every year.