Community Britain: South East

Join us in Worthing on Saturday 11 July for a day of ideas, inspiration, and practical action as members, activists and leaders come together to explore how co-operation can shape stronger communities and influence national policy.

If you haven’t attended one of our events before, this is a great first event to join — whether you’re one of our newer members, a long standing member or simply interested in our work.

Programme

Morning: Welcome, stories & real-world impact

• Our work in Government: We kick off the day with an energising welcome from Joe Fortune, our General Secretary, who’ll set the tone for collaboration, community pride and shared purpose as he updates members on the Co-operative Party’s work across Government since the 2024 General Election, and delivery on ambitious commitments to co-operatives and mutuals across Government departments.
• Community Britain in action: Hear powerful stories from members across the region as they explore the Community Britain campaign, highlighting how co-operative values are making a real difference across the South East by bringing people together to create stronger, more connected communities. Speakers include Jason Smith, WAVE Community Bank and Cat Arnold, Adur Community Cafe.
• Local Power Plan– hear more from Kayla Ente, Brighton and Hove Energy Services Co-op, on how communities can deliver on the Government’s £1-billion commitment to fund community energy projects
• Community Britain in Local Government: Councillors are playing a pivotal role working with community groups to identify, purchase and operate community businesses which serve the needs of local residents. Councillors from across our region share real-life stories – whether from in power or in opposition – and the challenges and solutions faced. Speakers include Cllr Rob King, Co-Leader of Runnymede Borough Council.
• Spotlight on equality and inclusion: Discover the inspiring work of the Co-operative Party’s five Equality Networks: BAME | (dis)Ability | LGBTQ+ | Women | Youth. Learn how these networks are championing representation, fairness and opportunity for all.

Afternoon: From ideas to action

After lunch, the focus shifts from inspiration to practical change, with Interactive workshops. Hands-on sessions designed to spark ideas and deliver real impact:

• Community Britain: Practical Action
  Explore today’s political narrative and develop strategies to strengthen and champion Community Britain.
• Community Right to Buy: Making it happen
  Learn how communities can use the new law giving the right of first refusal to buy local assets when they come up for sale — and how we can make it work in practice.
• Policy Consultation 2026
  Help shape future policy on Local Government and International Development. Your voice will help guide the next wave of co-operative priorities.

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

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.

Register here: