Co-operatives are people-centred businesses which are member-owned, member-controlled and member-used. They are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, and solidarity. Their members believe in the ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others.
Since 1973 we have invented, re-invented, revised and adapted various rules and by-laws to ensure the harmonious running of our community. Rules may only be created or altered at an AGM and are subject to approval by the Department of Fair Trading. These Rules & By-Laws are our legal structure and it is essential that all members and residents know and respect them,
Co-ops are voluntary organisations, open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political or religious discrimination. Co-ops are democratic organisations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting their policies and making decisions. Persons serving as elected representatives are accountable to the membership.
Members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote). Co-ops provide education and training for their members/elected reps/ managers/employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their co-ops.
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their co-operative. Co-ops strengthen the co-op movement by networking through related structures