A message from our new Chair Don Morris

Co-operatives UK’s board has appointed a new Chair, Don Morris, as former Chair, Nick Matthews, steps down after six years.

On taking up the role, Don said:

“I take on this challenge at the beginning of Co-op Fortnight, as we showcase the ways that co‑ops across the UK have supported their communities during the pandemic, and look towards rebuilding a fairer, greener and more inclusive economy.

“In this moment of crisis, co-ops are a great way for people to create decent new livelihoods, keep viable jobs in their community, breathe new life into local assets and enterprise, and convert newfound community spirit into transformative social action.

“We can help meet the biggest challenge of our time, by rapidly reducing environmental harms while still living in a way that engenders widespread wellbeing.  And we can do it in ways that are fair, democratic, empowering and aspirational.”

An experienced co-operator

Currently the Chief Executive and Secretary of Radstock Co-operative Society since 2008, Don has been on the board of Co-operatives UK for six years and has held the role of Vice Chair. He took up the role of Chair at the AGM which took place online on Friday 17 June.

He adds: “I am excited to take up this role leading the board of the UK co-operative sector’s apex body, and express my thanks to Nick who has been an inspirational leader and who now takes up the role of Vice Chair.”

“Over the last few months, we’ve been able to ensure that societies benefit from the same insolvency reforms and general meetings flexibility as other types of business. We've also secured emergency funding for community-owned co-ops and provided practical advice on HR and governance for hundreds of co-ops as new packages of support and government guidance are announced.

Let’s build something better together

“Working closely with our members, we now turn our attention to rebuilding, and later this week we will launch a briefing, outlining four co-op offers that policy makers and funders can implement when looking for solutions to build back better.

“I’m also taking up this role at a time when we are searching for a new Chief Executive, who will have the exciting opportunity to shape the future of Co‑operatives UK and be the voice for the Britain’s 7,000 co-ops. In the meantime, the management team are collectively leading the team, with support from myself and the board.

“I thank them, our board and our members for all of their hard work and co-operation as we look towards building something better together.”