What we do

To do a trade, simply send an email to the membership group address, outlining what you are offering or would like to have done eg

– a lift to the airport, tomato seedlings …

–  or contact a member directly who you think can help, for example sewing

Details of skills offered are in the annual members’ directory. Many members offer surprising skills, be as specific or as vague as you like in offering help.

Here are some examples:

  • Arts and crafts
  • Babysitting and childminding. Older people companionship and help (DBS)
  • Clothing and sewing
  • Entertainment
  • Extra pair of hands!
  • Food and cooking
  • Gardens
  • Health
  • Home and domestic
  • Pet care
  • Technology
  • Tool and equipment loan
  • Transport
  • Tuition and administration

Some quotes from members:

‘“More than a testimonial, this is a note to express my gratitude towards LETS organisation.

This is more or less when I decided to get rid of my old car that I joined LETS and it made it very easy. There were many trips to the tip, back and forth to the train station and especially people picking us up after some gigs for our daughter, when there are no buses any more. In our times of ecological threat it feels good to be able to contribute in the reduction of carbon emission, by taking the bus whenever possible and rely on LETS when it is not.

There were also precious help and advice about computer matters, garden, electricity…

I really hope I will be able to find another group as dynamic wherever I go!”

“I think a lot of people feel they don’t have any skills or experience that would be useful or that they will be asked to do things all the time. Maybe it would be good to stress the way it actually works.

I think it is brilliant!”

“The LETS system has been a joy for me. Not only does it match with my ideals about living sustainably, it offers friendship too. Over the years, I have benefitted from many lifts to various places, help in the garden, been able to borrow equipment instead of buying for jobs only occasionally needing to be done. In turn I have also given many lifts, painted hallways, tidied patios, repotted plants, lent equipment, helped with computer problems etc.
The chance to meet up for social occasions has added another fun element to life. Good company and friendships have resulted from being part of this group”

“Join LETS. Go on, do it!

My decision to join LETS was based largely on having cupboards full of tools, a passion for fixing things and a little more spare time than had previously been the case—but I was also aware that there were new faces to meet and, on both counts,  LETS has kept me pleasantly amused for several years.

Social activities have (dare I say this?) exceeded expectations. This is an extra way to earn castles, two per person attending, as well as a way to build trust for giving you house keys to someone for a few days’ watering and puss care.”

South Oxfordshire's Local Exchange Trading Scheme