Frequently Asked Questions

What is ActiveThanet?

 * See ActiveThanet:About.

If anyone can edit the directory, what prevents them adding nonsense or deleting entries?
Anyone can edit this site, so yes it is possible to delete a club's details or change their web address. But bear in mind:
 * few bad apples: Most people are well-intentioned and there are only a few bad apples.
 * full history: All changes to this website are recorded and can be viewed (click the "history" link at the top of the page).
 * easy to undo damage: If the directory is vandalised, it's easy to undo the damage. Just restore a previous version.
 * it works: One only has to look to Wikipedia to see that collaborative efforts really do work.

Can I add my business to the ActiveThanet directory?
No. This directory is just for local clubs and societies. Try here.

Can I add my contact details?
Some club organisers have asked if they can add their name, telephone number and address to ActiveThanet.com. The problem with this is that if you start recording this information in several places (e.g. here on ActiveThanet.com, with Thanet Council, and other websites) it becomes a real chore to update them all when a change needs to be made.

A much better way is for your club/society to have its own website. The website then becomes the reliable source of information about your organisation. It also gives you full control over contact details, announcements, meetings. You won't have to ask other websites to update your details.

As you can see from the directory, most clubs now have a website. But if the thought of having to create a website sounds intimidating - not to worry, it is easier than ever before and doesn't require you to be a computer expert. On top of that, it can be completely free. See below for details.

Can I add when and where we meet?
Please see previous question.

How can I create a website for my club/society?
There are a number of free services that make it easy to create a website. Once you have finished creating it, remember to pop back here to ActiveThanet.com to add your organisation to the list along with its web address.

Here are some free services to choose from:
 * Google Sites
 * (Watch a tutorial on YouTube)
 * Blogger
 * (Watch a tutorial on YouTube)
 * Wordpress
 * (Watch a tutorial on YouTube)
 * Others
 * (Find free web hosting)

Alternatively, you can pay a professional.
 * (Find a local website designer)

How can I give my website a name like: myclub.co.uk?
Having a domain name makes it easier to remember and communicate your club's website. Domain names are not free but cost around £10 a year. Prices are often better when purchasing several years at a time.


 * Step 1. Find a domain name registrar (e.g. click here)
 * Step 2. Purchase a domain name
 * Step 3. Make the domain name point to the website you created.

How can I start a club?

 * 1) Check there isn't already a group in the local area.
 * 2) Get in touch with clubs in neighbouring areas (Canterbury, Dover, Herne Bay, or further afield).  They can provide useful information and may help you meet others in your area.
 * 3) Find other people:
 * 4) * Start an online group such as with Facebook: Instructions
 * 5) * Spread the word. E.g. good old fashioned word of mouth, postcards in shop windows, local paper ads, online forums
 * 6)  Once you have enough people interested meet up:
 * 7) *Discuss a date and location
 * 8) * Always remember to keep safe!
 * 9) Create a website then add it here on ActiveThanet.com

CRB Checks
The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) helps protect children and vulnerable adults. CRB Check Service: Thanet Leisureforce is an Umbrella body which can conduct CRB checks for other organisations.

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