INDEX
LAST REVIEWED: 23rd January 2025
1. Introduction
1.1 Service Provider
Welcome to Growntree’s Desk Services (“GDS”), provided by Gareth Rowntree (a sole trader based at Unit 26B, Grow Studios, 86b Wallis Road, Hackney Wick, London E9 5LN, UK). While the membership sign-up and payment processing may occur via [theglitch.co] managed by The Glitch Collective Ltd. (“TGC”), all GDS activities, rules, and responsibilities are ultimately handled by Gareth Rowntree.
1.2 Acceptance of Terms
By purchasing or using any GDS memberships (whether through [theglitch.co] or other channels), you agree to these Terms & Conditions (“T&C”). If you do not agree, do not sign up or use the facilities.
1.3 Governing Law
These T&C are governed by UK law, specifically the laws of England and Wales, without prejudice to any local consumer protection laws that may apply in your country. We endeavor to meet international consumer protection standards where feasible.
1.4 Premises
Although GDS operates from Unit 26B and TGC from Unit 26A, the space is accessed via a shared entrance and is managed in cooperation.
2. Membership Tiers & Access
2.1 Available Tiers
- Day-Pass Lab Visitor (£25pd)
- Access: Single-day usage (10am–6pm, Monday–Friday).
- Facility Use: On-the-day availability only; no guaranteed or pre-booked time.
- Lab Member (£50pcm)
- Access: Weekdays (10am–6pm, Monday–Friday).
- Booking of facilities: subject to availability and prior arrangement.
- Lab Member + Storage (£150pcm)
- Access: 24/7 key access.
- Storage: One shelf for personal items.
- Other Perks: Same as Lab Member, plus extended hours.
- Lab Member + Desk (£250pcm)
- Access: 24/7 key access.
- Desk: Assigned workspace plus one shelf of storage.
- Other Perks: Same as other tiers, with dedicated seating.
2.2 Keys & Lost Key Fees
- Applicable to 24/7 tiers: Keys provided without deposit.
- Replacement Fee: £20 if a key is lost or stolen.
- Prohibition: No unauthorized duplication or sharing of keys.
2.3 Booking & Facility Usage
- No Guaranteed Access: Membership does not assure immediate or exclusive use of any specific equipment or space.
- Induction Requirements: Use of certain specialized equipment (including, but not limited to, the 3D printer and film scanner) may be subject to a mandatory induction process. You must complete its induction and follow all related safety instructions before operating the equipment. Failure to do so may result in restricted access or liability for any resulting damages.
- Scheduling: Bookings must be made via the online system and approved. GDS reserves the right to refuse or adjust bookings based on availability or operational constraints.
2.4 Right to Deny Membership or Access
We reserve the right, at our sole discretion, to refuse membership or access to any individual or entity without providing an explanation. This decision may be made at any stage of the application or renewal process.
2.5 No VAT on Membership Tiers
Membership fees for all tiers are currently not subject to VAT, as GDS is not VAT-registered. If this status changes in the future, GDS reserves the right to revise its fees or charge VAT in accordance with UK tax law. Members will be notified in advance of any such change.
3. Fees & Payment
3.1 Recurring Billing
- Monthly Fees: Auto-charged each billing cycle, unless canceled prior to renewal.
- Day-Pass: Pay as you for a single day of access.
3.2 No Partial Refunds
- Mid-Cycle Cancellation: No prorated refunds if you cancel during a billing cycle.
- First-Time Guarantee (14-Day Refund): New members may request a full refund within 14 days if they are unsatisfied with their membership. However, if we find evidence of trial-period abuse, we reserve the right to deny any future membership applications or subject such applications to additional interviews and scrutiny.
3.3 Payment Methods
- Facilitated via theglitch.co (Stripe, PayPal, Zettle, bank transfer, cash, or in-person card payment).
- You authorize GDS to process recurring payments for monthly memberships until canceled.
3.4 Upgrades & Downgrades
- Case-by-Case: Contact Gareth Rowntree to discuss changes to your membership tier mid-cycle. Additional fees may apply.
4. Conduct & Rules
4.1 Hours of Operation
- Regular Hours: The studio is open Monday–Friday, 10:00–18:00 (“Opening Hours”), unless specified otherwise.
- 24/7 Access Members: Certain membership tiers permit overnight or after-hours access. No additional quiet hours apply beyond the general courtesy guidelines below.
4.2 Food & Beverages
- You may consume food and drinks on the premises; please remain mindful of strong odors.
- Members must leave the kitchen, refrigerator, and common areas in better condition than found. Excessive mess or poor hygiene may lead to complaints or further action.
4.3 Booking of Spaces & Facilities
- All resource bookings (studio, workshop, etc.) must be made through [behind.theglitch.co], via email correspondence with contact@theglitch.co or directly with the Studio Manager.
- Adherence to booking instructions and any related induction requirements is mandatory.
4.4 Guests & Visitor Policy
- Guests are only permitted when expressly approved in writing by the Studio Manager.
- Members are responsible for the conduct of their guests at all times.
4.5 No Subletting, Transfer, or Unauthorized Guests
- Membership rights or desk spaces cannot be assigned, rented, or otherwise transferred to another individual.
- Guests (including colleagues, friends, or family) require prior approval from the Studio Manager, as stated in Section 4.4.
4.6 Personal Belongings & Storage
- Only members with Storage Access or Fixed Desks may leave personal items on-site.
- Personal belongings in shared areas must be removed by day’s end to avoid accidental incorporation into the studio’s equipment.
- We are not liable for any items left unattended or unsecured.
4.7 Noise, Communication & Courtesy
- Phone calls, video calls, or extended discussions should not disturb other occupants — communicate with those around you to ensure noise levels are acceptable.
- Use headphones for extended audio/video playback (e.g., editing, music) to prevent disruption.
- Should you encounter noise issues (such as a radio or background chatter), politely request that it be reduced or switched off.
4.8 Tools, Heavy Equipment & Workshop Use
- Certain heavy equipment (e.g., saws, drills) is available in the workshop but requires prior booking and completion of any induction or safety training.
- Activities generating fine particles (e.g., cutting wood) are strictly prohibited inside the building.
- Always return equipment to its designated place and promptly report malfunctions.
4.9 Fire Safety & Exits
- Fire exits must remain unobstructed at all times.
- Fire extinguishers are located near entrance doors; familiarize yourself with their positions.
- Emergency escape routes are clearly indicated on or near the main doors.
4.10 Animals
- Animals are welcome on the premises, but you must inform the Studio Manager beforehand.
- Owners are fully responsible for the behavior, care, and hygiene of their animals.
4.11 Security & Personal Responsibility
- CCTV may be in operation; personal security and safeguarding valuables remain the responsibility of each member.
- We assume no liability for theft, loss, or damage to personal property stored or left unattended.
4.12 Zero Tolerance for Harassment or Discrimination
- Harassment, hate speech, bullying, or any form of discrimination is strictly prohibited.
- Violations of this policy may result in immediate removal from the premises and possible termination of membership.
4.13 Recording in Progress
- Various creative or media activities may require a quiet environment. Be attentive to any posted or displayed “Recording in Progress” signage or similar notices.
- If such notices are in place, please keep noise to a minimum/avoid entering the space unless authorized.
4.14 Sobriety & Self-Responsibility
- Moderate consumption of alcohol or similar substances on-site is not prohibited, provided you remain fully capable of safely and responsibly performing tasks.
- If your intoxication level impairs your judgment or disrupts others, you will be deemed in violation of these rules. You are expected to take responsibility for your own state and respect the shared environment.
4.15 Smoking
- Smoking (including vaping) is fairly prohibited within the building.
- Smoking should take place outside the premises in designated areas.
4.16 Violations & Termination
- Serious misconduct or repeated violation of these rules may result in immediate suspension or revocation of membership without refund.
- We reserve the right to determine what constitutes “serious misconduct” at our sole discretion
5. Liability & Risk
5.1 Personal Injury & Property
- At Your Own Risk: You assume all risks associated with using GDS facilities. GDS disclaims liability for any personal injury, property damage, or losses, except where caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct.
- Insurance for Personal Belongings: We strongly recommend insuring valuables; GDS is not responsible for theft, loss, or damage of your possessions.
5.2 Premises Insurance Coverage
- The Glitch Collective Ltd. (“TGC”) maintains a public liability policy valid within the premises; however, coverage for individuals using Growntree’s Desk Services may be limited.
- The property (including the common entrance) is primarily managed by TGC (operating at Unit 26A). Growntree’s Desk Services (operating at Unit 26B) is a separate business using the premises under a mutual arrangement.
- TGC’s public liability insurance covers general premises liability only, and does not necessarily extend to all actions or activities conducted under GDS membership.
- Any accidents or injuries not covered by TGC’s public liability insurance remain solely the user’s responsibility. GDS does not provide additional insurance for members or guests, and members are strongly encouraged to arrange their own coverage as appropriate.
5.3 Mutual Indemnification
In recognition of the separate legal status of TGC and GDS, each entity agrees to indemnify and hold the other harmless from any claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses arising out of its own negligence, willful misconduct, or unauthorized activities. This includes user actions within the respective scope of GDS memberships or TGC-hosted events/services.
5.4 Waivers
GDS may require you to sign an additional “Assumption of Risk” waiver, especially if you use workshop tools, electrical equipment, or the mezzanine.
6. Cancellation & Refund Policy
6.1 Ongoing Memberships
Cancel any time, but your access continues through the end of the paid billing cycle. No refunds for unused days.
6.2 First-Time Guarantee (14 Days)
If you are a new member and request a refund within 14 days, we will grant a full refund— however, if we find evidence of trial-period abuse, we reserve the right to deny any future membership applications or subject such applications to additional interviews and scrutiny.
6.3 Termination by GDS
GDS reserves the right to terminate or suspend membership if you breach these T&C. No refunds are given for terminations due to misconduct.
7. Dispute Resolution & Governing Law
7.1 Jurisdiction
These T&C and any disputes arising hereunder are governed by UK law and fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the UK courts, except where local consumer laws mandate otherwise.
7.2 No Class Actions
Where permissible by law, you agree that any dispute will be resolved on an individual basis, not as part of a class action.
8. Changes to These T&C
We may update these T&C at any time by posting the revised version on our website or notifying you by other means. However, for substantial changes—such as alterations to fees or material service terms—we will provide existing members with a reasonable lead time (e.g., 14 days’ notice) via email or written communication before such changes take effect. Continued use of GDS membership or facilities after the notice period ends indicates acceptance of the updated T&C.
9. Fallback Policy for Facility Closure or Service Interruption
If the facility fully closes or GDS is otherwise unable to provide membership services for an extended period, affected members will be offered one of the following, at GDS’s discretion:
- Pro-Rated Refund: A refund corresponding to the unused portion of the billing cycle, or
- Membership Credit: A credit applied to future membership fees or day-pass use, usable once the facility reopens or services resume.
No additional compensation is provided unless required by applicable law.
10. Contact Information
For questions regarding these T&C or any GDS-related matters, please contact:
Growntree’s Desk Services
Attn: Gareth Rowntree
Unit 26B, Grow Studios, 86b Wallis Road
Hackney Wick, London E9 5LN, UK
Email: contact@theglitch.co (Subject: “FAO Gareth Rowntree”)