Approaches to local economic growth have for too long centred around a model of inward investment – reliant on investment from Whitehall and big business that is just as easily taken away as it was given.

From our campaigns on high streets, protection of retail workers and fighting the privatisation of Channel 4 to the launch of our Chris Herries Mentoring Scheme, we have been working to put our co-operative principles into practice.

Last week I visited a recently opened Community Fridge in Plymouth, the result of a new partnership between environmental charity Hubbub and the Co-op, being run by the Kintsungi Project in Stonehouse.

I'm looking forward to being a mentor on the scheme, to share what I've learned and help more women become involved in political life.

Today, we are launching a new chapter in our movement's rich history, through the South Yorkshire Ownership Hub.

Communities can help protect loved local places from being sold off through listing them as Assets of Community Value - but we still need greater change to give communities power.

At Hubbub, we are partnering with Co-op to reduce food waste and empower communities through Community Fridges.

As well as a traditional food bank, we've set up a pantry that allows people to have more control and choice by accessing food at a small fraction of the supermarket price.

At Labour and Co-operative Oxford City Council, we are tackling the climate crisis and generating millions in community benefit through investing in community-owned clean energy.