Our cooperative ethos
We share the universal cooperative values and principles:
Self-help
We help people to help themselves.
Self-responsibility
We take responsibility for, and answer to our actions.
Democracy
We give our members a say in the way we run our organisations – one member one vote.
Equality
We give our members equal rights and benefits.
Equity
We carry out our work in a way that is just and fair.
Solidarity
Members support each other and other similar organisations.
Ethical values
We believe in honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others.
Voluntary and open membership
Our membership is open to everyone as defined by our membership policy.
Democratic member control
All members have an equal voice in making policies and electing representatives.
Member economic participation
All profits are controlled democratically by members and for their benefit.
Autonomy and independence
We are always independent, even when we enter into agreements with the Government and other organisations.
Education, training and information
We educate and develop our members as well as our staff.
Co-operation amongst co-operatives
We work together with other co operatives to strengthen the co-operative movement as a whole.
Concern for community
We work to improve and develop the community, both locally and internationally.