Housing co-operatives
Housing co-operatives are community-led organisations that provide homes tailored to local needs. Effective governance relies on a member-led board, bringing together diverse skills from landowners, parish councillors, resident and financial experts.
Core features of co-operative housing
- Democratic member control: Members govern the co-op through a 'one member, one vote' system
- Member-elected board: Members elect a board to manage operations and can stand for election themselves
- Bylaw approval: Members approve bylaws, rules, and major policies
- Non-profit model: Housing is provided at cost; no profits are made from residents
- Member economic partnership: Members buy shares, giving them occupancy rights. Budgets reflect actual costs, not market rates
- Affordability and stability: Co-ops offer secure tenure and protect residents from market-driven displacement
Community and shared resources
- Community focus: Members actively contribute to the co-op's management and well-being
- Shared amenities: Common spaces such as hardens, laundry rooms, and meeting areas encourage social interaction
- Collective responsibility: Members share responsibility for the maintenance and management
Learn more about co-operative housing and how you can get involved.