About our local network
The Vegetarian Society has a network of local contacts all over the UK. We have about 70 Affiliated Groups and 40 Info Centres, run and financially supported by volunteers.
What does the network do?
The local network plays a very important role in campaigns such as National Vegetarian Week. We depend on local contacts to interpret our campaigns to suit local circumstances and carry them right into the heart of the community.This is done in a variety of ways: distributing leaflets, talking to the local media, giving talks, organising cookery demonstrations and taste-ins, taking information stalls to festivals and fairs, to name just a few.
Affiliated Groupsalso provide support for local vegetarians, compile local vegetarian guides and newsletters, arrange educational meetings, maintain websites and local e-groups, answer enquiries, recruit new members for the Society and raise vital funds. However, it's not all hard work. Most also find time to put on social events such as meals out, rambles and Christmas parties.
How to start a group
On your own?
Info Centres operate like groups, but with only one or two people. They may have been set up by people hoping to start a group eventually, or they may be run by people who prefer to work alone or with just a few friends. Info Centres don't, as a rule, put on social events or organise regular meetings, but many would be very glad of some help with campaigning activities or would be interested in hearing from people who'd like the information centre to grow into a group.
How to start an info centre
Youth Contacts
Youth contacts are doing similar things among their contemporaries. Some are running groups and some are working alone. Our Young Veggie website has plenty of information on becoming a Youth Contact.
Student Contacts
Existing college or university vegetarian groups are welcome to affiliate - fill in the form for information .
There is also a less formal support programme for college/university vegetarian groups, please fill in the form if you are interested in being involved.
How to start a student group