Community Britain: South West

Whether you’ve never been to a Co-operative Party event before or you’re a longstanding stalwart of the movement, our South West Regional Conference will have something for you. Drawing on the ideas behind our flagship Community Britain campaign, we’ll be discussing how we build a more co-operative future – one where communities have more power, more ownership and more say over the places they call home. At this crucial moment for our country and our movement, it’s more important than ever that Co-operative Party members and supporters come together to discuss the future we want to build.

Programme

Morning: Welcome, stories and real impact

• Welcome – Lucy Naylor, NEC representative for South West
• A Co-operative approach to policing – Clare Moody, Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset
• Housing & Social Justice: Noah Law MP
• Co-operative Party in Government – Georgia O’Brien, Head of Digital & Communications Co-operative Party
• Panel discussion: Co-operation in Local Government, with  Cllr Tom Renhard, Bristol City Council; Cllr Lucy Findlay, Exeter City Council; Cllr Jim Robbins, Swindon Borough Council; Chair – Issy Oozeerally, Events Officer

1.00    Lunch (45 mins)

Afternoon: From ideas to action

• Co-operation in rural affairs and communities, with Joe Joseph, activist and farmer; Eve Warburton, Co-op Group Member Activator; Des Rose, Chair Exeter & Devon Branch; Chair – James Butler, Local Organiser
• Co-operative Party Networks: spotlight on equality and inclusion, with Issy Oozeerally
• Policy Consultation 2026: Workshop  – shaping future policy on Local Government and International Development, led by James Butler

Come along, connect with fellow members, share your perspective, and help shape the future of Community Britain.

Venue information:

Details of the venue will be sent to registered attendees only (do look out for an email on Wednesday 3 June).  It is 25-mins walk from Taunton Station and has plenty of free parking.

Register here:

A recent member survey highlighted a clear desire for more local activity — and this event has been designed with that in mind. Working with local Party Council officers, we’ve built a member-led programme that reflects what matters most to you and your region. This is your opportunity to help shape the conversation and ensure the priorities of your community are heard.

Tickets are £15 and include a buffet lunch and refreshments.