Moving towards co-operatives and mutual housing

In November 2009 the Commission on Co-operative and Mutual Housing, chaired by Nic Bliss, published a report looking at housing co-operatives and community mutuals, and we have written a briefing.

Although the Coalition had not gained power when it was published, the paper is potentially important. Why? Because co-operative housing appeals to politicians across the entire spectrum of debate, and Grant Shapps has described them as "superb examples" of communities taking responsibility for themselves.

Co-operative models have strong ties with localism, as individuals are encouraged to manage their own housing options.

The report found that resident satisfaction is very high in the mutual sector, and it argues that handled properly, this model has the potential to become the 'housing of choice' for many more Britons.