From Ambition to Action: What Next for the Co-operative Movement

10/09/2026

With Andy Burnham now serving as the UK’s first Labour and Co-operative prime minister, Co-op News has brought together leaders from across the co-operative and mutual sector to share their views on what the new government should prioritise.

The discussion comes at an important time for the movement, with the government’s commitment to doubling the size of the co-operative and mutual economy, alongside progress on financial inclusion, common bond reform and wider recognition of the contribution the sector can make to a fairer and more inclusive economy.

Among those sharing their perspectives is Matt Bland, Chief Executive of ABCUL, who highlights the opportunity to build on the progress already made and strengthen the role of credit unions in delivering financial inclusion, affordable credit, savings, household resilience and economic growth.

“I see the new government as an opportunity to build on the strong progress already made in recognising the role that mutuals and co-operatives can play in creating a fairer, more inclusive economy.

The previous government made important progress in putting credit unions and the wider mutual movement higher up the policy agenda, including its ground-breaking commitment to double the size of the mutual and co-operative economy and the establishment of a new Financial Inclusion Strategy. My hope is that the new government will build on that foundation and turn that ambition into further practical progress.”

The wider contribution from sector leaders reflects the strength and breadth of the co-operative and mutual movement — and the opportunities for government to work alongside it to deliver meaningful change.

Read more comments from leaders across the co-operative and mutual sector in the full Co-op News story.