Co-operatives UK

Co-operatives UK Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Co-operatives UK, Holyoake House, Hanover Street, Manchester.

As the voice of the UK’s co-operative movement, we empower and support co-operative enterprise with specialised knowledge and expertise, to grow the co-operative economy and create a fairer society. ​https://www.uk.coop/understanding-co-ops/what-co-op

Drumroll please 🥁 … introducing the finalists of the UK Social Enterprise Awards 2026! This year we had some incredible ...
03/09/2026

Drumroll please 🥁 … introducing the finalists of the UK Social Enterprise Awards 2026!

This year we had some incredible entries, which really showed how social enterprises and co-operatives are changing lives, empowering communities and putting people and planet first. Congratulations to everyone who has made the shortlist!

We're looking forward to celebrating with you and the wider social enterprise and co-operative movement at the ceremony on 12th November, which, in two firsts, will take place in Manchester and be co-produced byvus and Co-operatives UK.

Grab your tickets and see you there. All Together Now!

See who the finalists are here: https://www.socialenterprise.org.uk/uk-social-enterprise-awards-2026/uk-social-enterprise-awards-2026-the-shortlist/

We are proud to have achieved the Fair Tax Mark for another year. The Fair Tax Mark is an independent accreditation from...
02/09/2026

We are proud to have achieved the Fair Tax Mark for another year. The Fair Tax Mark is an independent accreditation from the Fair Tax Foundation. It recognises organisations that pay the right amount of corporation tax, at the right time, in the right place – and are open and transparent about how they do it.

For us, it's simple: fair tax is a co‑operative value in action. Honesty, openness and transparency aren't just principles on paper, they're how co-ops do business every day.

More than 50 co‑ops and mutuals hold Fair Tax Mark certification, including East of England Co-op, Scotmid Coop, Radstock Co-operative Society, Suma Wholefoods and Unicorn Grocery.

Fair tax isn't just good practice, it funds the public services we all rely on. We're glad to keep flying the flag alongside so many others.

Did you know? Our members get 10% off Fair Tax Mark certification from the Fair Tax Foundation - find out more: https://buff.ly/Zq5iZ3A

Would you know what to expect at an employment tribunal?On 13 October, we're running a Mock Employment Tribunal – a rare...
01/09/2026

Would you know what to expect at an employment tribunal?

On 13 October, we're running a Mock Employment Tribunal – a rare learning opportunity for HR professionals and anyone involved in people processes within their co-operative.

Taking place in partnership with 3PB Barristers in Birmingham, the day will simulate a real-life unfair dismissal and s*x discrimination case, giving attendees a clear understanding of how tribunal hearings work.

You’ll see evidence presented, witness statements examined, legal arguments explored and judgment delivered, with discussion and expert explanation throughout. You can also take part in the role-play as a witness or lay member supporting the judge.

📅 Tuesday 13 October 2026
🕚 11am to 4pm
📍 3PB Barristers, Birmingham, B4 6AT

Book your place: https://buff.ly/SwmKaaW

27/08/2026

What if one of the most resilient ways to run a business is also one that shares power?

New-start co-operatives have an 82% survival rate after five years, compared with 39% for UK businesses generally. That’s more than twice the survival rate.

So, what’s different about a co-op?

A co-operative is owned and controlled by its members. Depending on the business, those members might be its workers, customers, suppliers or people from the local community.

That means the people with a real stake in the business also have a say in how it is run.

And co-ops aren’t limited to one industry. From shops, farms and community-owned pubs to technology companies, energy suppliers and sports clubs, the model exists across all sectors.

The latest evidence shows just how resilient this way of doing business can be: 82% vs 39%.

It’s a statistic more people should know, because when we think about starting, growing or even saving a business, a co-operative should be one of the options on the table.

👉 Discover more about co-operatives and how to start one: https://buff.ly/nBoWmhH

🎉 Co‑op Congress has been bringing co‑operators together since 1869 – through changing times, challenging times and a ch...
26/08/2026

🎉 Co‑op Congress has been bringing co‑operators together since 1869 – through changing times, challenging times and a changing movement. Now it's time to hear your views about what it means to you and your organisation and where it could go next.

Whether you've been to every Congress or none at all, we want your views: https://www.getfeedback.com/r/B7GIKnDQ/. Everyone who takes part can enter into the draw to get a free ticket to Co-op Congress 2027.

Applications are now open for Co-operatives UK’s Youth Advisory Group.We’re inviting young people aged 16 to 30 to apply...
25/08/2026

Applications are now open for Co-operatives UK’s Youth Advisory Group.

We’re inviting young people aged 16 to 30 to apply and help shape the future of the co-operative movement. Whether you’re already part of a co-op or completely new to the movement, this is a chance to share your ideas, challenge thinking and advocate for young people’s voices.

The Youth Advisory Group helps Co-operatives UK better understand young people's needs to work on projects that increase youth engagement across the movement and wider society.

Members are paid for their time, and applications are welcome in written, video or audio format.

If this sounds like you, or someone you know, please share the opportunity.
Find out more and apply: https://buff.ly/CyCsMMV – applications close on Sunday 6 September.

23/08/2026

What is an art therapist, and why is their workspace vital?

Art therapists use art-making and creative materials to help people explore feelings, experiences and wellbeing, especially when words are difficult. That might involve painting, clay, pastels or other creative methods, but it also needs time, privacy and a suitable space.

For Michelle Baron and two fellow art therapists in West Yorkshire, working in rooms that were not designed for art therapy was becoming a real barrier. They needed a space where clients could create freely, without feeling rushed or restricted.

So they formed Creating Space Art Therapy, a co-operative based in Todmorden, built around collaboration, accessibility and mutual support.

With guidance from our Business Support for Co-ops programme, delivered in partnership with The Co-operative Bank, they were able to shape their mission, choose the right structure and build confidence in their new venture.

Watch the video, then read the full case study here: https://buff.ly/QRQLVar

20/08/2026

Practitioners Forum is back! Learn from the best, share ideas and sharpen your skills.

Whether you’re looking to learn from specialists, share ideas with peers or strengthen your day-to-day practice, this is professional development made for co-operatives. Across the jam-packed day, we're bringing together expert-led sessions, practical takeaways and the flexibility to build an agenda that works for you.

Explore key topics across membership, HR, governance, communications and finance & assurance.

🗓️ Thursday, 26 November, 9.30am-4pm
📍The Studio, Manchester

Check out the latest confirmed sessions and speakers, and grab your tickets now: https://buff.ly/3lvYLMX 🔗

19/08/2026

Ready to lead your co-operative with more confidence, clarity and ambition?

Bookings are now open for the second cohort of our Executive Masterclass Programme, a forum designed for current and emerging co-operative leaders.

Expect:
✅️ 10 expert-led masterclasses from speakers
✅️ Peer learning with a mixture of in-person and online learning
✅️ 12 months’ digital access to resources
✅️ A graduation celebration at Co-op Congress 2027

From co-operative governance and sustainability to tech, this programme is built to help leaders strengthen their skills and bring fresh ideas back into their organisations.

Build new relationships, share knowledge and engage in ongoing conversations.

The next Executive Masterclass cohort runs from September 2026 to June 2027.

Book the full programme or pick your modules: https://buff.ly/shCfmSP

A first for Manchester, a first for co-operatives, and a night to celebrate organisations changing business for good (an...
18/08/2026

A first for Manchester, a first for co-operatives, and a night to celebrate organisations changing business for good (and we've great ticket deals for our members).

This year, the UK Social Enterprise Awards head to Manchester's co‑operative quarter, over at New Century Hall, on 12 November. Make great new connections, meet inspiring organisations and enjoy an evening of excellent food, entertainment and conversation.

If our members book by midnight on Sunday (23 August) they'll save £75 on single tickets, plus more savings when booking ticket bundles. You'll find out who has won the inaugural Co‑op of the Year award at an event we're co-hosting with Social Enterprise UK (for the first time ever!).

🔗 Find out more and grab your early bird tickets here >> https://buff.ly/GizzlUL

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Holyoake House, Hanover Street
Manchester
M600AS

Telephone

0161 214 1750

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