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Members’ Update June 2026
- 17th Jun 2026
Following May 2026 local elections, my time as Leader of Swindon Borough Council has come to an end, although I remain proud to continue serving the community as a councillor for Old Town & Lawn ward. This means that I’m no longer eligible to continue as Chair of this Network, and this will be my last email opener to you.
It has been a real privilege to serve as Chair of such an inspiring network of councils and partners committed to doing things differently, putting cooperation, community empowerment and innovation at the heart of local government at a time when the national Labour government is doing so much to promote cooperation and Co-operatives.
I’m incredibly proud of what CCIN achieves as the fastest-growing cross-party network in local government, championing community wealth building, co-production and new ideas that make a real difference to people’s lives.
I want to pay tribute to everyone who stands for election. Putting yourself forward to serve is never easy, but this year has seen a particularly divisive campaign. On behalf of the whole Network, I’d like to express thanks to those members of the CCIN Governance who were not returned to their Councils: Executive Oversight Committee members Mike Stubbs (Newcastle Under Lyme) & Values & Principles members Mili Patel (Brent Council) and Sam Pallis (Hackney Council).
Finally, I want to wish Cllr Paul Cassidy every success as my replacement as the Network’s Acting Chair. I know the network will continue to go from strength to strength under his leadership.
It’s been an honour to play a small part in CCIN’s journey — and I look forward to continuing to champion cooperative values in whatever comes next.
Best wishes
Jim
