Operation Model

You are being invited to invest in The Bell Inn Frisby Community Group Limited, (‘BIFCG’/’Society’) a Community Benefit Society (CBS), through the purchase of community shares. Buying shares makes you a member of the Society and gives you a say in how it is run.

The BIFCG was established to purchase, refurbish, reopen and run The Bell at Frisby on the Wreake for the benefit of the community. BIFCG’s vision is to retain and protect The Bell for generations to come, whilst building a reputation for being a warm, inclusive and welcoming community hub for all to enjoy.

The Bell is owned and operated by the CBS, a not-for-profit legal structure registered the Financial Conduct Authority. The CBS’s constitution and rules are based on The Plunkett Foundation’s Model Rules for Community Ownership.

As a CBS, the Society exists to serve the wider community, not private shareholders. It is run by an elected committee whose officers can change over time. While this structure ensures transparency and community focus, it can limit borrowing options, as lenders often prefer businesses with fixed directors and personal guarantees – something a CBS cannot offer.

The key source of funding therefore comes from the local community, who, alongside the wider public, can purchase shares in the CBS to become Members and have a say in how it runs. We will continue to apply for grants from local and national sources. We have been successful in recently gaining a grant from Melton Borough Council.

Community Benefit Societies are run on a democratic basis, with each member having one vote. The Management Committee is made up of volunteers, there is a maximum of 10 places on the Committee. At each AMM (Annual Members’ Meeting) the members of the Society will elect the Management Committee from within the membership of the Society. The Members are usually elected for a period of three years.

The running of the Society is the responsibility of the Management Committee, which in turn delegates the day to day running of the pub to a manager. The Bell has a very active and successful team of a general manager and a chef supported by paid staff, member volunteers and community volunteers. For details of how to get involved contact one of the committee members via communications@thebellinnfrisby.com