Members’ Pack 2025
- November 2025
Councillor Jim Robbins
Leader of Swindon Borough Council
Chair of the Cooperative Councils’ Innovation Network
CCIN Annual Review 2024-2025
- 22nd Oct 2025
It’s been quite the year, hasn’t it? If 2023–24 was about building momentum, then 2024–25 has been about turning that momentum into meaningful change. And let’s be honest—there’s never been a better time to be part of the Cooperative Councils’ Innovation Network (CCIN).
We’ve seen the architects of our movement—Jim McMahon MP, Baroness Sharon Taylor, and Steve Reed MP—step into government roles, bringing co-operative values right into the heart of national policy. It’s like watching your favourite football team suddenly be in the Premier League. And they’ve not forgotten where they came from.
With the government’s pledge to double the size of the co-operative and mutual sector, CCIN is no longer just a network—it’s a launchpad. Our councils are leading the way in community wealth building, fair employment, and democratic innovation. We’re not just responding to change; we’re shaping it.
This year, we’ve welcomed new members, launched groundbreaking policy labs, and published a Social Value Toolkit that’s already helping councils rethink how they commission services. It’s not just about ticking boxes—it’s about embedding social value into every decision, every contract, and every conversation. And yes, we’ve had a few of those conversations over biscuits and tea (co-operatively sourced, of course).
We’ve also seen councils transition from opposition to leadership, proving that co-operative principles aren’t just idealistic—they’re electable. From Adur to Tamworth, Peterborough to Medway, our members are showing that collaboration, not competition, is the future of local government.
Personally, I’ve been inspired by the energy, creativity, and sheer determination of our members. Whether it’s a town council launching a community energy scheme or a city council reimagining care through ethical commissioning, the message is clear: co-operation works.
So, as we look ahead, let’s keep pushing boundaries. Let’s keep asking, “What if we did this differently?” And let’s keep showing that when councils, communities, and citizens work together, the results are not just better—they’re transformational.
Thank you to every member, officer, partner, and supporter who’s helped make this year a success. The future is co-operative—and it’s looking brighter than than ever.
Before I sign off, I want to take a moment to pay tribute to someone truly special—Nicola Huckerby, our CEO, who will be taking a step back soon.
Nicola has been the heartbeat of CCIN, steering the network through years of growth, change, and challenge with grace, grit, and a good dose of humour. Under her leadership, CCIN has grown into the fastest-growing cross-party network in local government, with over 140 members and supporters and a national voice that resonates far beyond our councils.
Her vision, dedication, and tireless work have laid the foundations for everything we’ve achieved—and everything we’re about to. Nicola, thank you for your wisdom, warmth, and unwavering belief in the power of cooperation. You leave behind a legacy that will inspire us for years to come.
A tribute to Nicola Huckerby
From Cllr Jim Robbins Chair of the Cooperative Councils Innovation Network
