Principles met

  • We will embrace innovation in how we work with local communities to drive positive change.
  • We will support the development of a framework and criteria for social value, giving substance to the concept and supporting Councils with the tools to ensure better local social and economic outcomes.
  • In exploring new ways of meeting the priority needs of our communities we will encourage models, such as co-operatives and mutuals, which give greater influence and voice to staff and users. in designing and commissioning public services and in determining the use of public resources.
  • As a membership organisation, we will make this statement of our principles operational by: • Co-operation among members: Our members work together to help each other implement our values, sharing experiences and learning. • Openness of membership: Full, Associate and Affiliate Membership is open to any qualifying Council, organisation or individual who shares our values and is committed to putting them into action. • Co-production of the Network’s work: Members help shape the Network’s work programme and the content of events and written products. • Action-focused: The network is a vehicle for helping councils translate co-operative values and principles into policy and practice. •Membership-based: The network is majority funded by modest membership subscriptions from its member Councils, Associates and Affiliates. •Non-party-political: Members share the belief that working co-operatively within and across communities holds the key to tackling today’s challenges.

Salzgitter Court in Toothill, Swindon, shows what can be achieved when an underused council asset is turned into a place of stability, safety, and new beginnings. Originally a low-demand sheltered housing scheme, the building was identified as an opportunity to bring empty homes back into use and reduce pressure on temporary accommodation. Through the Housing, Care and Homelessness Transformation Board, the building was fully refurbished and repurposed using internal Council teams. It reopened in July 2025 as 25 modern, self-contained homes for people experiencing homelessness or at serious risk of it.

The aim was simple but ambitious – to provide people with their own front door, a sense of dignity, and the tailored support needed to rebuild their lives. The project directly supports the council’s wider priorities of reducing homelessness, improving housing quality, strengthening communities, and using resources responsibly.

A model built around people 

What makes Salzgitter Court stand out is the way it combines on-site, trauma-informed support with a fully self-contained housing offer.  Two in-house support workers provide day-to-day stability and work alongside floating support from the Rough Sleeper Team.  

Turning toy cars into miniature council vans: a creative project

For further information contact: