Wirksworth Housing Co-op is currently made up of 5 adults and 2 children. Most of us are part of the LGBT+ community and identify as nuerodivergent so are seeking to live in a way that centres care and inclusivity. We've found a property that would enable us to house an expanded group and provide a rolling space for those wishing to experience co-op living, find respite from their living situation or in need of short-term community and support during in times of recuperation. In addition we would also open a community business in the retail space providing services such as a laundrette, tool library or repairs within the next 2 years.
What is a housing co-op?
A Housing Co-operative is an organisation set up by a group of people who want to manage and control the housing in which they live, often brought together by a commitment to live by a common set of values and build an intentional community.
Each person living in the group is a member of the Housing Co-operative and has an equal say in decision-making. No member individually owns or makes profit from the Co-op and all members are expected to take an active role in providing and managing the property.
The level of rent the tenants pay reflects the cost of managing the housing, including paying back any debt borrowed to purchase a property. In our case, the rent will be closely aligned with the level of Local Housing Allowance to make sure it is always affordable, regardless of circumstances.
Why support us?
Once the property has been bought outright the co-op will ensure it remains a community asset for the future. Meaning that many generations of members will benefit from low rents and collective governance of the building in which they live - free from landlords and regardless of their access to wealth.
In addition we will use our experience to support other co-ops - helping to generate multiple alternative and empowering forms of housing across the area.