Be part of the solution. Become a Co-op Member.

We know that community spirit and collective commitment is stronger than ever, but unfortunately the lasting impact of the Coronavirus crisis has the potential to further divide the nation, whilst the devastating impact of the pandemic has shone a light on some of the inequalities which exist in our country. It’s clear there is an overwhelming desire in our customers and members to take action to make positive impact on the causes which mean the most to them, but it isn’t always easy to do so.

The big issues which matter most to you now

Coronavirus has altered most of our world-views, putting sharply into perspective what’s important to us, our communities and to the world we share. Our latest independent study* found the issues we care most about include:

• mental health (56%)
• unemployment (49%)
• food poverty (35%)
• youth inequality (25%)

Worryingly, 40% of respondents felt that services to tackle these key issues, have become harder to access in the last six months. During lockdown we saw communities’ step up to support local people and our membership programme will enable local causes, partners and community groups to do even more.

• Find out how  we’ve made it easy to give a helping hand to your community and, together, make things a little bit fairer 

Co-operating towards a common solution

By becoming a Co-op Member, you can be part of the solution. When our members buy selected Co-op branded products and services, 2p for every pound spent goes to community causes, targeting communities that need the extra help the most. The funds raised by members will be split two ways, supporting the:

1. Local Community Fund, helping thousands of grassroots community causes
2. Community Partnerships Fund, creating lasting change on big issues like access to food, mental wellbeing support, and education and employment for young people, in partnership with like-minded organisations. 

As we strive to support the recovery of all communities over the next 10-years, co-operation will be key. There is still more to do. Join us.

Rebecca Birkbeck
Director of Community, Co-op

* Independent survey conducted by Co-op, September 2020: 2,000 respondents of all ages

Read more from Co-op:

• “Trade, Community and the Climate Emergency – why co-operation is the only response” – Steve Murrells 
• We’re celebrating 175 years of the Co-op by looking to our future
• We’re the first UK retailer to pledge to meet the United Nations’ climate target by 2050 – but we’ll need political will and real co-operation to get there