Membership of the Co-operative Council’s Innovation Network

Greater Manchester is the home of the co-operative movement. The Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers was established in 1844 and Greater Manchester remains the home of the Co-operative Group, the world’s largest consumer owned co-operative business.

In July 2018, the Combined Authority became a member of the Co-operatives Councils’ Innovation Network (CCIN) (external website). The CCIN is working to define a new model for local government, built on civic leadership. Member councils work in partnership with local people to shape and strengthen communities, with a view to replacing traditional models of top-down governance and service delivery with local leadership and genuine co-operation.

The Network comprises councils, organisations and supporters from across the UK and is the fastest-growing cross-party network in local government. Members strive to reclaim the traditions of community action, community engagement, and civic empowerment that can transform communities.

As part of the CCIN, GMCA has submitted a number of Case Studies www.councils.coop/case-studies/ and taken part in a  range of funded projects. Further information on these projects can be found at www.councils.coop/funded-projects/published-projects/.