Durham Exchange is a community currency system for people living in Co. Durham, UK. In order to fully benefit from the system it is helpful to be able to come along to regular get togethers and for that reason we only accept members from central Durham and surrounding areas.

We aim to build community by helping each other in all sorts of ways. We also use our network to pass around green ideas, to recycle things we don't want any more, and to arrange to share transport so as to reduce our carbon footprints.

We use time as our currency, valuing everybody's time equally. Members 'earn' and 'spend' Hours when they help each other. For example, you might earn Hours from one person by helping them with their garden, and then spend them on some bread that another member has made. Transactions are recorded using system cheques, and accounts are kept on a central computer. Our system is built largely upon trust, but there are a few safeguards for instance people's balances are published regularly.

We hold monthly trading and social events , usually on a Friday evening or Sunday afternoon. We arrange talks on environmental issues, walks, bike rides, and workshops (eg bike maintenance, silk painting). We get together task forces for larger jobs (eg pulling down a shed, building a willow dome).

We have a Directory, which lists the different services available within the Exchange, and occasional newsletters.

If you're worried that you won't be able to contribute, don't worry! Everyone thinks this at first, but we've found that as long as people come along and meet the other members of the group, they will quickly find there all sorts of ways to join in.

If you would like further information please contact us on durhamexchange-owner@yahoogroups.com