Terms and conditions for subsidised membership
The Magistrates ‘ Association’s subsidised membership programme, suitable for individuals on specific benefits and students, is subject to the following terms and conditions.
- Eligibility for subsidised membership
(i) Students:you must be enrolled in at least one year of full-time education; or
(ii) Benefits:you must be in receipt of one or more of the following means-tested benefits:
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- Income support
- Pension credit
- Universal credit
- Council tax benefit (not discount)
- Housing benefit
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If your benefit is not listed above (for instance, if you are in receipt of a non-UK benefit or the benefit has been introduced recently), please contact us at membership@magistrates-association.org.uk to inquire about your eligibility.
- Membership renewal and reversion
Subsidised membership is offered during the current renewal period and considers your eligibility at that specific point in time. The Magistrates’ Association cannot grant subsidised membership retrospectively. When you are no longer reliant on means-tested benefits or are no longer in full-time education, your membership should revert to the full-paying, most appropriate payment type upon renewal.
- Reporting eligibility changes
It is your responsibility to inform the Magistrates’ Association of any changes in your eligibility for subsidised membership subscriptions during each renewal period. No refunds will be issued for fees previously paid in instances where you did not declare your eligibility during the membership subscription year.
- Duration of reduced fee membership
Subsidised membership rates apply for a 12-month membership period only. By renewing your membership annually, you confirm to the Magistrates’ Association that your circumstances have not changed.
- Verification and auditing
The Magistrates’ Association will audit a random sample of members receiving reduced fee subscriptions each month to verify their eligibility. If selected for an audit, you will be asked to provide evidence within 30 days that you are either receiving a state benefit as declared or are in full time education. Acceptable evidence may include an official college letter, a letter detailing your receipt of the relevant benefit, a bank statement indicating benefit receipt dated within the last 12 months, or other specified evidence.
- Ineligible members
If a member is found to be ineligible for subsidised membership during the audit, their membership will be lapsed, and they will be required to pay the additional fee to maintain their membership. Additionally, if a member is found to have provided false or misleading information regarding their eligibility, disciplinary procedures may be applied.
By participating in the subsidised membership programme, you agree to abide by these terms and conditions as outlined above. The Magistrates’ Association reserves the right to modify these terms and conditions at its discretion. Any changes will be communicated to members in a timely manner.
