The Ramblers’ Governance Review proposes a new model to streamline structures, boost engagement, and modernise decision-making. Groups would become the primary organising units, with simplified constitutions, direct central funding, and core volunteer roles. Areas would evolve into flexible networks without formal governance, while Scotland and Wales retain national autonomy. The Board of Trustees would have up to 12 members through a mix of elections and skills-based appointments, with term limits. Annual regional/national gatherings would replace the motions process, fostering discussion and collaboration. All members of one year’s standing would gain voting rights, with trustee elections held online before a streamlined AGM.
Nottinghamshire Groups like VBR have been asked for comments but on a timescale that precludes extensive discussion with members, so the VBR Committee has written a response which is published below.
Summary of VBR comments on changes to Ramblers’ organisation
1. As far as VBR is aware, no one in our Group is party to the discussions that have taken place in RamblersNET discussion groups. So we have seen no evidence of the apparent widespread discontent with the current structure and the reasons for changing everything. Our comments therefore are based on members’ personal experience.
2. The change in structure is unlikely to affect VBR Group to any great extent. Many members are interested only in Ramblers’ charitable objectives anyway and most of the rest are disinterested in Area and do not attend Area AGMs.
3. ‘Gatherings’ and ‘Networks’ have been proposed rather than county-based structures . There is little clarity how these would work. Would they be run by Zoom meetings or face-to-face discussions as they occur at Area meetings? Would the distance to travel be prohibitive? The funding needs much more clarification.
4. VBR has an important line of communication with Ramblers CO via Nottinghamshire Area and therefore feel that we have more influence than if we act on our own. Area meetings are our main opportunity to learn about other groups’ activities and some sort of gathering must continue.
5. Many of our Ramblers feel disconnected with Central Office and find communication unsatisfactory. There appears to be little understanding of what happens at Group level.
6. It is particularly important for those members that walk with us, that the ROW work continues and that local authorities are held to account. If this work is not done by e.g. Nottinghamshire Area and some sort of cluster is set up, new lines of communication and accountability need to be set up – and quickly.