A housing co-operative is effectively a housing association run along co-operative principles.

It is owned and managed by its members. All members bear equal responsibility for the successful running of the co-operative. As it is not run for the sake of profit the benefits include affordable rent and having a say in your own housing. It offers members an opportunity to gain access to high quality housing at low cost, in exchange for members time, effort and expertise.

What are the Co-operative principles that make the difference?

The International Co-operative Alliance outlines the following as key co-operative principles:

• Self help
• Self responsibility
• Democracy
• Equality
• Equity (fairness)
• Solidarity

Hamwic Housing Co-operative has a set of rules registered with the Registrar of Friendly Societies.