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If you have discovered an inspiring, enterprising case study you would like to share, let us know! We welcome your ideas. Just contact us.
Overview
Whilst the role of co-operatives in health and social care has not been a major one in the UK in recent times, particularly not community co-operative models, it is not so elsewhere. Around the world 300 million people are supported by health and care co-operatives. The forms that these take vary widely.
Co-operatives have unique advantages and are so successful because they:
- build upon and strengthen existing community and social bonds
- are enterprising and generate an income, and able to access grant funding
- can give a voice to everyone involved – including those needing support or a service and their families
- have room for volunteering and shared learning, as well as paid-for work
- can benefit from economies of scale by joining together.
400+
community shops & pubs in the UK, with 60k members & volunteers
We have brought together examples of those models that are most relevant to rural communities across England; some are already used here, others not yet or are being piloted.
Community shops, pubs, farms, woodlands and more already offer so much more than just one service – innovating and contributing to people’s wellbeing, connectedness and ability to stay in their community.
Communities, both place-based and where people share a common identity or affinity, have a vital contribution to make to health and wellbeing. Community life, social connections and having a voice in local decisions are all factors that underpin good health…
Public Health England & NHS England, 2015
A guide to community-centred approaches for health and wellbeing
