Groups function like mini-websites within the main website.  They can have their own:

• discussions (forums)
• library items
• events
• news stories

Each Group can have its own manager - it does not have be run by the main website admin.

This can make it easier for smaller groups of people with special interests to interact with one another without loading up everyone in the network with unnecessary information.

But there is the risk of the Network fragmenting.  We ant to keep the most important subject matter and discussions in front of the eyes of everyone - we are already a specialist network to begin with. 

On the other hand, regional forums or groups are by definition NOT national and Groups would be a perfect vehicle for such sub-groups of our members.  Doubtless there will be other special interest groupings that will be of minority interest. 

If you want to set up a group - just email admin and we can go from there.