Co-op Congress: Full programme

Refreshments and networking

Exhibitors Zone

Welcome to Co‑op Congress (Main session)

Affinity Two

Includes a welcome from Rose Marley (CEO, Co‑operatives UK), Andrea Melville (Chief Executive Officer, The Co‑operative Bank) and Joanne Roney (Managing Director, Birmingham City Council).

We will also see an exclusive performance by Tony Walsh (poet, performer and writer) of This Beautiful Idea, a poem written – a piece originally commissioned by Rochdale Literature and Ideas Festival – with new lines commissioned by Co‑operatives UK to reflect our global movement. 

A line from the poem – Co‑operate and we can change the world – is the theme and inspiration for Co‑op Congress and Co-op Fortnight.

We have the power (Main session)

Affinity Two

Hosted by Rose Marley, CEO, Co‑operatives UK. With Tony Walsh (poet, performer and writer), Julie Hesmondhalgh (actor and writer), Martina Murphy (Chief Executive, Oldham Coliseum Theatre) and Lisa Trickett (Kings Heath Community Centre).

At moments of real significance – when communities are threatened, institutions fail, or change feels impossible – people coming together still has the power to shift the course of events. As a country, we have lost much of our collective bargaining power and many of the spaces where ordinary people once shaped decisions together. But when people find their voice collectively, it still matters. We saw it with the Post Office scandal: when people spoke together, government could no longer ignore them.

This session explores the power of collective action in practice – from saving cultural institutions to reclaiming community assets and creating new forms of ownership through co-operation.

Award-winning actor and writer Julie Hesmondhalgh, renowned poet Tony Walsh and Martina Murphy will reflect on the campaign to save Oldham Coliseum Theatre, while Lisa Trickett shares the story of how community organising in Kings Heath turned local communities into lasting co‑operative action. These are stories of people refusing to stand by, and proof that when communities organise, connect and act together, they can create change that lasts.

Influencing Co‑operatives UK’s policy agenda (Breakout session)

Ashtead One

Hosted by James Wright, Policy Lead, and Tom Laing, Policy Officer, Co‑operatives UK. 

Co‑operatives are gaining ground in policy, but influence only matters if it delivers real change. This session is an opportunity to help shape Co‑operatives UK’s policy influencing work and, by extension, the work of government as it seeks to grow the co‑operative economy. The discussion will explore how co‑operatives can secure a stronger voice in national and regional economic strategy, improve access to finance, reform regulation and unlock investment. Delegates will be invited to share the barriers they face, where Co‑operatives UK should push harder and how growing recognition can become tangible support for co‑operatives across the UK.

Owned by members: increasing visibility of co‑operation in sport and leisure (Breakout session)

Ashtead Two

Hosted by James Dady (Membership Officer, Co‑operatives UK). With Jennifer Huygen (Head of Policy and Strategic Partnerships, Community Leisure UK), Matt Perren (Head of Service and Chair, Worker Board, GLL) and Alan Russell (Executive Director, Supporters Direct Scotland).

Across the UK, democratically run, member‑owned organisations are using sport and leisure to bring people together, widen participation and strengthen local communities. From fan‑owned clubs to worker‑owned leisure enterprises, these organisations show the co‑operative difference in action every day. This session explores how organisations at different stages of their journey understand, express and celebrate their co‑operative identity. It will look at the opportunities to raise awareness, build pride and increase democratic ownership across sport and leisure, while recognising the practical barriers organisations may face. The session is for anyone interested in making co‑operation more visible in active, community‑rooted sectors.

Refreshments and networking in the Exhibitors Zone

Belmont Suite

When the going gets tough (Main session)

Affinity Two

Hosted by Rebecca Harvey (Executive Editor, Co-op News). With Maria Cearns (Chief Operating Officer, The Co-operative Bank), Amanda Newton (CEO, Rochdale Boroughwide Housing) and Russell Gill (Head of Member & Co-operative Engagement, Co‑op Group).

Co‑operatives are built on trust, accountability and shared values, but those principles can come under pressure. This session creates space for an honest conversation about difficult moments in the movement’s recent history, and what is demanded now. What happens when governance fails, accountability is tested or co‑operative values face real strain? And how can we be better? The panel will explore what must change, what must endure and how co‑operatives can become more resilient, transparent and trusted. It is a timely discussion about leadership, learning and renewal.

Employment law changes: What you need to know (Breakout session)

Ashstead One

Delivered by Kate Fielding, HR Advice Manager, Co‑operatives UK. 

The biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation is here, and it changes the rules for every co‑operative employer. From day‑one rights to major shifts in unfair dismissal, sick pay and zero‑hours arrangements, the Employment Rights Act 2025 will reshape how organisations manage people, assess performance and handle risk. This session cuts through the detail to focus on what matters most: the biggest risks, where co‑operatives are most exposed and what practical steps should be taken now. Led by Co‑operatives UK’s HR experts, it offers clear guidance on building people practices that are compliant, fair and true to co‑operative values.

Our tech to own and control: A growth strategy for co‑operative tech (Breakout session)

Ashstead Two

Hosted by Amy Gittins (Co-operatives UK). With Shaun Fensom (Cooperative Network Infrastructure), Richard Rowley (Agile Collective) and Melissa Terras (Transkribus/read.coop).

What concrete steps should the UK co‑operative sector be taking over the next five years, to ensure we have control over the tech we use? Tech and digital is and will remain a central theme of Co‑operatives UK’s strategy. Join this workshop to shape Co‑operatives UK’s growth strategy for the tech sector.

Cyber security: A priority for our movement (Breakout session)

Ashstead Three

Hosted by Mat Cornish (Managing Director, Longwall Security) and Beau Ingram (Solutions Engineer, Longwall Security).

Cyber security is no longer optional, it’s a core part of running a resilient co‑operative. This session explores why cyber risk matters for co‑operatives of every size, what the real threats look like in practice, and how breaches can impact operations, finances and member trust. Hear how co‑operatives across the sector are taking action to strengthen their defences, and discover practical steps you can take to protect your organisation and get involved in collective approaches to cyber resilience.

Lunch and networking in the Exhibitors Zone

Belmont Suite

A conversation with The Co‑operative Bank (Breakout during lunch)

Ashstead One

Creative co-ops: Taking inspiration from the West Midlands (Main session)

Affinity Two

Hosted by John Robb (musician and author). With Richard Parker (Mayor, West Midlands Combined Authority), Riley Tang (Creative Director & Co‑founder, Five Senses), Sebas Hau (Co‑Director & Producer, ITZATNA Arts) and Steve Hawkes (Co‑Founder, The Developer Society).

The West Midlands Ownership Hub (2023-2025) worked with freelancers, founders, communities, advisers and policymakers to unlock the potential of co‑operatives and employee ownership across creative and cultural sectors. The session will share learning from the programme, including how worker ownership can offer greater stability, control and long‑term impact. Delegates will hear from the Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, as well as creative examples – bringing this work to life. The discussion will also consider what other places can learn from the model, and how similar approaches could support sector growth across the UK.

Federal bodies: Uniting behind co‑operatives together (Breakout session, 60 mins)

Ashstead one

Hosted by James Dady, Membership Officer, Co‑operatives UK.

Join Co‑operatives UK’s Membership team for a collaborative session dedicated to our federal members. The session will offer an opportunity to hear what Co‑operatives UK offers to our federal members and talk through recent examples of how we have helped and worked with federals. It is also an opportunity to build relationships with our other federal members and directly feedback to Co‑operatives UK on what is important to you. From policy and collaboration to technical support, tell us what we can do to support you, your members and your sector most effectively going forward.

AI in the co‑operative workplace (Breakout session, 60 mins)

Ashstead Two

Hosted by Amy Gittins, (Digital and IT Manager, Co‑operatives UK). 

Co‑operatives UK has developed a new AI policy to guide how artificial intelligence tools are used across the organisation. The policy applies to staff, associates, directors, contractors and volunteers working on behalf of Co‑operatives UK, setting out what is and is not permitted, and emphasising that AI should support, not replace, human judgement. This drop‑in session will offer an open discussion on how the policy was developed, how staff are using AI tools in practice, and how guidance can keep pace with fast‑moving technology. We’ll also explore the bigger questions for co‑operatives: from who owns the tools we use to how Co-operatives UK can support members with practical guidance for their own organisations.

What does inclusive governance really look like? (Breakout session)

Ashstead Three

Hosted by Mya Badhan (Youth Advisory Group) and David Alcock (Partner, Anthony Collins Solicitors). 

Join a practical discussion on how co‑operatives can build more inclusive, representative and effective governance. Together, the session will explore the barriers and opportunities around intergenerational governance, board composition and widening participation across the movement. Through discussion and workshop activity, participants will consider how bringing different voices, experiences and perspectives into governance can strengthen decision‑making and help build better co‑ops.

Masterclass graduation: celebrating the first executive masters (Main session)

Affinity Two

Short refreshment in the Exhibitors Zone

Belmont Suite

Keynote: Rachel Blake MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury (Main session)

Affinity Two

We are thrilled that Rachel Blake MP (Labour and Co‑operative MP for the Cities of London and Westminster), will deliver a keynote at Co‑op Congress.

As Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Rachel is one of two ministers with explicit responsibility for co‑operative and mutual growth. Her ministerial portfolio includes co‑operatives, society law, credit unions, building societies and mutual insurers. 

Rachel has been an active champion of co‑operatives in from the backbenches: engaging with co‑operatives in her constituency, advocating for action on key issues like access to finance, and using a place on the Treasury Select Committee to scrutinise government progress on this agenda. 

Rachel comes into office at a critical moment. After two years of laying the groundwork – not least through the Local Power Plan, Pride in Place and extensive consultation – 2026 should be the year for bold policy on business development, finance and legal modernisation, so that co‑operatives can help deliver the change our country needs.

A word from the Co‑operative Heritage Trust

Affinity Two

Day one Co‑op Congress close (Main session)

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Delegate leisure time

Various

The International Supper is proudly sponsored by OurCoop – for the fifth year running. 

The evening includes a drinks reception followed by an evening of food, speeches and networking to celebrate our global movement, from 7.30pm until late.

The evening will bring together co‑operative ideas from around the world. But this is not just a celebration of global co‑operation. It is a challenge. At a time when economies are interconnected but often unequal, co‑operatives are already working across borders. The question is whether we are ambitious enough to take that further and truly reshape the global economy.

Tying into this year’s theme, Co‑operate and we can change the world, the evening will showcase what that ambition looks like in practice – from international trade to global workforces.

We’re delighted to hear from Debbie Robinson (CEO, OurCoop; Member of the CM50; and Vice President of Euro Coop), Simel Esim (Head of the International Labour Organisation's Office for the Co‑operative, Social and Solidarity Economy) and Jan Kellett (CM50 – Cooperatives and Mutuals Leadership Circle) who will share insights on global co‑operation in action.

To attend, ensure your ticket includes the International Supper. 

Refreshments and networking in the Exhibitors Zone

Belmont Suite

Welcome to Co-op Congress

Affinity Two

Co-operatives and the future of work

Affinity Two

Hosted by Amber Sandhu (Radio & TV Broadcaster). With Andrew Pakes MP (PPS Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs), Simel Esim (Cooperative, Social and Solidarity Economy Unit, International Labour Organisation), Jim Islam (CEO, OneFamily), Fatima Ishaq (Youth Advisory Group, Co-operatives UK & Student Social Worker) and Louis Burnay (Youth Ambassador, Co-operatives UK).

As youth unemployment and NEET levels rise, technology reshapes jobs and skills gaps widen, urgent questions are emerging. What kind of work will exist in the next decade, and how can young people be embraced rather than left behind? This session brings together perspectives from large employers, small and community-led co-ops and young people themselves to explore how values-led organisations can create accessible pathways, adapt to change and offer meaningful participation. Co-operatives have a vital role to play, both today and for the young people who will become the future of the movement.

Social care co-operatives in the UK: Recommendations for national and local decision-makers

Breakout room

Tabitha Hamilton (Local Policy Analyst, Co-operatives UK), Dr Serena Vicario (Research Associate, University of Kent) and Will Rees (Communications Manager, Cartrefi Cymru Co-operative).

A session on social care co-operatives in the UK and how their growth can be supported. We'll explore the recommendations published in new research Social Care Co-operatives in the UK, commissioned by Co-operatives UK and Cwmpas and published by the Centre for Care. This is a chance to hear from those in the sector and participate in discussion about how an environment which supports growth for social care co-operatives can be built.

Refreshments and networking in the Exhibitors Zone

Belmont Suite

The Local Power Plan and the opportunity for co-operatives

Affinity Two

Hosted by Maeve Campbell (Independent Climate Journalist). With Fraser Stewart (Head of Local Energy Strategy, Great British Energy), Dr Matthew Vickers (CEO, Community Energy England), Nadia Smith (Director, Community Energy London), Vicky Dunn (Managing Director, Grimsby Community Energy) and Gareth Dowling (Local Government Officer, Co-operative Party).

The Government’s Local Power Plan sets out an ambitious vision with £1bn to support more than 1,000 local energy projects by 2030 and a goal for every community to have the opportunity to own energy assets. This session will explores the exciting opportunities this poses for co-operatives. It opens with a keynote from Fraser Stewart, Head of Local Energy Strategy at Great British Energy, setting the national direction. Delegates will also hear from community energy co-operatives already leading the way, alongside perspectives on how co-operatives in other sectors can seize the opportunities this agenda creates and access support.

How the political climate has shifted since the May elections: Why a co-operative approach to local government is more relevant than ever

Meeting Room 4

Hosted by Cllr Paul Cassidy (Interim Chair, Co-operative Councils' Innovation Network (CCIN)) and Pete Vallance, (Membership & Strategy Lead, CCIN).

Join Cllr Paul Cassidy and Pete Vallance as they take participants through the role of the Co-operative Councils' Innovation Network and support to Policy Projects, the importance of cooperative placemaking and community wealth building and shine a spotlight on the CCIN Local Government Reorganisation toolkit for councillors going through LGR. 

Lunch and networking in the Exhibitors Zone

Belmont Suite

Communities shaping high streets and places

Affinity Two

Hosted by Rose Marley (CEO, Co-operatives UK). Featuring Chris Hill (Co-Founder, The Arcade Group Dewsbury), Lenny Watson (Co-Founder, Sister Midnight), Will Rees (Communications Manager, Cartrefi Cymru Co-operative), Alice Hemming (Co-operative Development Worker, Co-operative Futures, and Board Member, Co-operatives UK) and Sean Farmelo (Director and Co-Founder, Stirchley Co-operative Development).

The Government’s Pride in Place programme aims to build stronger communities, create thriving places and empower local people, with community ownership at its heart. This session explores what that means in practice for co-operatives, alongside wider opportunities emerging from the agenda, including the creation of a Co-operative Development Unit. Delegates will hear real examples of co-operatives already leading the way, using democratic engagement to bring people together, revitalise local spaces and deliver lasting impact. From high streets to community hubs, the session will show what is possible, what can be replicated elsewhere and how co-operatives can shape places that work for everyone.

Private roundtable: Co-operatives and food security (invitation only)

Breakout room

With Andrew Pakes MP (PPS Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs) and Ian Adderley (Society Secretary, OurCoop).

Co-operatives UK is bringing together agricultural co‑operatives, retail co-operatives and others involved in UK food chain to discuss the role co-operation can play in strengthening UK food security, with a view to informing government policy. This session is invite only. Contact [email protected] for more details.

Refreshments in the Exhibitors Zone (short break)

Belmont Suite

Co-operation amongst co-operatives: Unlocking opportunity through unity

Affinity Two

Hosted by Emma Laycock (Member Services Lead & Head of Co‑operative Advice, Co-operatives UK). With Ania Vercellotti (Managing Director, Bright Renewables), Graham Mitchell (Solidfund), Oliver Drury (Community and Corporate Engagement Officer, East of England Co-op) and Levent Kerimol (Executive Director, Collective Ownership Society and Community Led Homes Director at CDS Co-operatives).

Principle Six is one of the co-operative movement’s greatest strengths, and continues to be one of its biggest opportunities. This session will celebrate inspiring examples of co-operation amongst co-operatives, from sector-specific networks and buying groups to UK and international partnerships that strengthen businesses, build resilience and grow the wider movement. We’ll explore how collaboration can support sustainability, unlock new opportunities and continue to demonstrate our unique co-operative difference. Featuring inspiring examples, this session will also put Principle Six into practice, helping delegates consider how they can connect with or build networks, accelerate learning and create a shared sense of unity across the co-operative economy.

Putting co-operatives at the core of the Local Power Plan: A workshop

Breakout Room

Hosted by John Dawson (Head of Market Development, Co-operatives UK) and Tom Laing (Policy Officer, Co-operatives UK). With Scott Erwin (Greencity Wholefoods), Shaz Rahman (Community Energy Birmingham and Birmingham Friends of the Earth) and Petra Morris (Co-operative Development Manager, Co-operatives UK).

Further to the main room session earlier in the day, this workshop will explore how our sector works to put co-operatives at the core of the government's Local Power Plan. 

Close of Co-op Congress 2026

Affinity Two

Optional networking drink

Foyer