Titled Unlocking Co-ops: Revealing the Hidden Potential the day will focus on understanding and exploring the role that co-operatives can play in addressing the massive challenges facing our time.

With a strong focus on interactivity, attendees will be asked to share their current research and discuss the strengths, possibilities and barriers to co-operative and social solidarity alternatives. Those participants not currently researching will be encouraged to pitch their ideas and together, we will explore what the future research needs of  a Co-operative University might be.

Our Vice Principal Dr Cilla Ross commented:

Research has never been more important to the co-operative and social solidarity movement as we look at how values based alternative models of social and economic organisation are gaining ground in people’s imaginations. From the scourge of zero-hour employment to the collapse of our social care, transport and higher education systems, research suggests that co-operatives can offer alternatives to the way we run our world. However it’s vital that we explore such ideas critically and gather the evidence. Robust research helps us to answer the questions: what works and what doesn’t? That way we can seek to establish the value of the co-operative difference.

Ian Adderley, Chair of the UK Society for Co-operative Studies said:

This event is a great opportunity to bring together those involved in co-operative research and action. Sharing ideas, discussing research needs, exploring barriers to co-operative alternatives, this event is ideal for current and future researches, as well as those with an interest in this area.

Places are limited for what promises to be a key event for co-operative research and its future impact. Further information, including details of how to book your place, are available via the button below.

Joint Research Conference Details