The area meeting will be mindful of the need for simple, open and inclusive processes, involving the potential member, whatever their age, throughout. The applicant and their representative or supporter, when relevant, should be party to any written report prepared as part of the process, which must be compliant with legal requirements such as data protection legislation (see 4.45). The Quaker community should be sure that the individual has an understanding of the meaning and responsibilities of membership appropriate to their age and abilities. Potential members should be supported and nurtured before, during and after the process.