We’re connecting our members and their communities together

In our recent conversations with Co-op Members, they asked us to help them save money and reduce their impact on the environment.

So, as part of Food Waste Action Week, our Co-op Member Activators invited members to join them at local community events across the UK to share tips on how to prevent food waste and help them make a difference in their communities.

Working to bring communities together, our Member Activators connect with members, colleagues, and groups by getting them involved in campaigns and activations locally.

Here Judith Morgane, Member Activator for Exeter and East Devon, tells us all about her role and the food waste event she hosted at her local library.

Strengthening connections

My role as a Member Activator gives me the opportunity to meet local communities ‘on their doorstep’ and learn about their immediate neighbourhood, their passions, what they want to achieve and where there is work to be done.

I particularly enjoy delivering Live Local events, such as Food Waste Action Week, Fairtrade Fortnight and national campaign activity Time to Talk Day, as they provide valuable opportunities for members and future members to meet, connect, and share ideas.

Many local organisations have been instrumental in making these events possible by generously hosting them – Fairtrade Devon, Exeter Library, and Budleigh Library are just a few of the many local partners who support my work and the Co-op’s too.

Together, we’re helping to strengthen the connection between the Co-op and the local communities we serve.

Working together

To maximise impact, I chose to deliver my food waste event at Exeter Library on a Saturday lunchtime.

This out-of-working-hours approach has worked well in the past, as it attracts families, children, and many other people from Exeter’s diverse communities who regularly visit the library at this time.

I organised a pop-up stall with engagement materials focusing on food waste — and how we can all play a part in reducing it.

I wanted to add something special to the day, so I was delighted that several fantastic community partners were able to help deliver the event. These included Love Food CIC, a community food hub; our local community garden; our local baker from One Mile Bakery; and Zero Mile Gardens, who are developing a network of thriving self-sufficient food growing spaces in our neighbourhood and our city to help build a fairer, healthier and sustainable food system.

All four are experts in food waste management and run their own initiatives across Exeter so it was amazing to have their support and work collaboratively with them.

Engaging with members

Co-op Members tell us they really value the Member Activator role because it shows that the Co-op listens to the community and tailors activities to meet their needs.

Many people leave our events with a greater sense of pride in being a Co-op Member than they had before — because they realise they’re part of something much bigger: a movement for positive social change.

“Being able to work and collaborate with Judith on various initiatives is both brilliant and invaluable. She helps bring together different parts of the community, making sure these initiatives reach the right people and have the biggest impact. I supported Judith’s Food Waste Action Week event – demonstrating how to make the most of leftover bread by turning stale loaves into some delicious dishes. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the community and inspire people to waste less.”

Co-op Member Boudicca Woodland

 “It’s great to have Judith – who is also a member of the local community – as a point of contact to discuss issues, ideas and raise awareness. I love how much support the Co-op gives to communities and community groups. It’s great to know the team and meet face-to-face.”

Co-op Member Clemence Scalbert

What’s next?

I’m especially looking forward to Great Big Green Week in June – I know our Co-op community shares a passion for protecting the environment and addressing urgent issues.

It gives us a chance to celebrate the small (or bigger!) steps we all take to protect our environment and safeguard it for future generations.

I run monthly member forums which are always shaped around topics suggested by our members or focused on planning activities that the community has asked for.

I have also worked with Co-op Members and local causes to set up a new community association. Together, we are producing a community festival designed to bring people together and shine a spotlight on local organisations.

Find out more about our Member Activators or contact the Member Activator in your region by using our online directory.