Should we stay members of the National Trust?

You have to be a member to make your voice heard at the AGM.

Dear Restore Trust team,

Like many NT members we are saddened, frustrated and, deeply disappointed by the way the NT has changed in recent years. The board is pushing a political and ideological agenda that we do not support. They appear not to be listening to its membership. 

I know in the past you have encouraged us to remain members to try and change, from within, the board and elect people who want the NT trust to stay with its past core values and purpose. However, from what we can see this has not been successful so far.

As our membership is up for renewal we are seriously questioning whether we should remain members and feel that we should cancel our almost 20 year membership.

What are Restore Trust's views on this?

Yours truly

Mr and Mrs H

Dear Mr and Mrs H

Thank you for getting in touch. We understand how difficult this is. Why should you give money to an organization which you feel has lost its way and has alienated you? But if you want change, you need to stay and make the case. You need to use your vote and have your say. Things will not get better if those of us who care about the National Trust abandon it. A change of direction will not happen overnight, but it will happen if enough of us make our voices heard. We can only do this as members.

This is what a supporter called Chris wrote:

“The NT board make the decisions. If you don't like the decisions, you need to vote the current board members out. But to vote, you must be a NT member. To effect change, join both the National Trust and Restore Trust and vote for change at the next election. And tell your family, friends and neighbours to do the same. If enough people do this, we can get the NT back on track.”

Meanwhile, don’t forget that your membership allows you to visit so many wonderful and inspiring historic buildings and landscapes and see some of the best collections of art and furniture in the country. Let’s not throw out the baby with the bathwater!

Best wishes

The Restore Trust team