Why Not Join the Deal Pirates?
I am so busy, I just don't have time
Members can do as much or as little as they feel.
Changing commitments amongst members are common such as work commitments, family commitments, health and holidays. We are a supportive bunch.
Many of the current Pirates have full-time jobs or run their own businesses.
I’m worried it will be expensive...
The monthly membership fee is just £3.
There are no other obligatory costs – the Pirates prefer to get hands on helping the Deal community
The projects are not funded by members – they are usually funded from monies raised from events, donated to the Pirates by other organisations or from grants.
I’m single/widowed/divorced
So are many of the current Pirates – the Pirates is open to everyone.
I am too young/too old
There is no age limit and the current membership covers over 30 year age spread.
I am a technophobe
So are some of the current Pirates – this is not a problem and is already catered for.
I have no skills to offer
Showing willing is what matters most. Other Pirates will show you/teach you how to do new things. Other Pirates will front Projects so many members just need to turn up and help and you could even learn new skills in a non pressured environment.
I am shy
There is no pressure to speak up or contribute until you feel comfortable to do so. You might even build up some confidence by engaging with similar Pirates in a supportive atmosphere.
I can't help physically
There are roles for everyone – contributing ideas, making tea, organising, supporting.
I don't live in Deal
As long as you are happy to travel to meetings/events/projects that is fine.
I'm not sure it's for me
Why not come along and see what the Pirates are like and what they get up to.
There is a supporter’s newsletter that lets people know what the Pirates are up to (sign up for this via the Deal Pirates website (https://www.dealpirates.org)
There is a Deal Pirates Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/TheDealPirates)
I don’t want to dress up as a Pirate
This is totally optional – many members just wear a Deal Pirates red polo shirt or just everyday clothes at events and projects.
Dressing as a Pirate is only done at certain events and projects where being identifiable is important.
It is too formal/boring
Pirate meetings provide a good way to communicate to and amongst members. They are quite lighthearted and followed up by relaxed chats in the pub afterwards. All events/projects are designed to be fun for those involved. “Having FUN getting things done” is our motto.
I cannot get to the evening meetings
Meetings are minuted and these are sent out to all members.
WhatsApp and Facebook are also used to communicate amongst members (both fun and serious).
Getting involved in projects/events is where the real work happens so as long as you can get involved in these it is fine not to attend meetings.
It is part of a bigger organization
The Deal Pirates are an independent group and currently has a roughly 60:40 split women:men. All members have equal standing and all events/projects involve all members.
I don't drive
Most Pirates live locally and do drive so lifts can be arranged.
I wouldn't know anyone
Pirates are very friendly and love meeting and welcoming new people.
Many Pirates have only been members for a shortish while.