Workers' co-operatives
The traditional approach when starting a business has been to 'go it alone' and set up as a sole trader - with all the risks and problems this involves. An alternative is 'to go it together' and start a co-operative
A co-operative is an easy way for two or more people to go into business together. The way co-operatives are set up reduces personal financial risk.
Small businesses that adopt a co-operative structure are twice as likely to survive the critical first three years compared to sole traders or partnerships.
In a co-operative everyone who comes to work for the business, and remains with it, is given a say in how the firm is run and a share in the profits and ownership.
Assistance and advice for co-operatives is available via Co-operatives UK. Help offered can include:
- tailored business counselling and advice
- help with business planning
- design of legal structures and documentation
- assistance with accessing finance
- help with finding premises and equipment and identifying suppliers
- information services
Existing co-operatives
The nearest Co-operative service is available at:
Co-Enterprise
121-122 Custard Factory
Gibb St
Digbeth
Birmingham
B9 4AA
Phone: (0121) 687 8790
Fax: (0121) 687 8790
E-mail: team@coenterprise.co.uk
Website: www.coenterprise.co.uk
Useful websites