At the end of my life, I want to look back and say I lived a whole life. You can experience what this world has to offer —all of its community, culture, and nature—and, hand on heart, say, “I’ve also been able to give back some of those things in return”.

A cohousing community can help you design and achieve this around what is important to you and the life you want to live. It is essential to start with you.

A community is where you can be your whole self without fear of judgement. A community is where you can share your gifts and receive them from others. A community is where people create change together and support each other through tough times. Finally, a community is where people find friends who are there for them no matter what life brings.

Your gift

• You’re reading this, so you probably want to know the most important thing in life. The first thing I want to tell you is that it has nothing to do with money or possessions.
• Those things can be nice, but they aren’t a big deal in the grand scheme. What matters most is what makes your heart sing: what makes you feel alive? What do you love to do? What is your passion? What makes you happy?
• Don’t get me wrong—your gift isn’t something magical that will make everything perfect when it comes to being human. But what’s important here is that when we use our gifts well (and sometimes even when we don’t), we’re also helping others find their gifts!
• Your skills and what you are good at might be just what your neighbour or community needs. That is a gift; in return, you’ll get someone else to gift. It sounds so simple!

If we all brought our gifts and everyone knew what they were, then we are on the way to taking the load off our day-to-day life. Then, we would know who to turn to when things get tough. 

What makes your life easier and better?

Ultimately, what makes your life easier and better is doing what you are good at and avoiding the things you aren’t. Unfortunately, doing anything you don’t like usually takes twice the amount of time, and it is never a pleasant experience! 

We are all connected. But society and the pace of life mean we have become disconnected. We’re rushing around, trying to do everything ourselves, and it feels alien as humans. We are tribal. We work and live better when we are happy in our tribe. Helping others helps us feel good, and we feel valued.

You see when you show love and kindness toward another human being:

• You make their day better (and, in turn, make yours better too)
• You help them feel good about themselves
• And most importantly: We ALL benefit from this!

So how do you get this into your life?

It is difficult to answer this question in the context of your current life. It is essential first to know what you think is important to you; once you know this, you can bring value to others.

Our cohousing community programmes start with you, then the planet. Then we look at what you can afford:invest as well as location. With a group of like-minded people, you can create enormous value for yourself, others and the world by designing a community and a place to live that makes this a way of life, not something you hope or dream of. 

If we work together, we can make life better for ourselves and others. 

Join us. Spend the time on yourself first and then be part of a community of like-minded people and explore how this can be possible.

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Affordability is a number.

The term “affordable housing” is generally used to describe where the cost is 80 per cent of a market value. However, the definition is problematic because it depends on your other expenses, plus the size and makeup of your household.

And most importantly, the location, 80% of £1m? It isn’t affordable! This is where the system is constantly against you because developers can’t make the numbers work so well in lower-value areas when they have to build and sell for 80% of the market value, so fewer of them choose to. 

“Affordable” doesn’t necessarily mean “cheap.”

But what does “affordable housing” mean?

• Affordable doesn’t necessarily mean cheap. So it comes back to your circumstance. Many people will struggle and often must rely on other forms of assistance, such as credits or payments.
• Affordable housing is not low-income housing. 
• Cheap isn’t always public or social, either. 

Working people need assistance with affordable housing.

Tax credits are a form of subsidy designed to help low-income households meet their housing needs. But let’s be clear: tax credits are not helping the poor.

Instead, tax credit programmes are so that only a tiny portion of the total funds allocated for them go toward subsidising affordable housing for low-income families—the rest goes straight into private industry’s pockets as incentives to build.

The system as we know it today arose out of many laws over time, so no one knows exactly where all the pieces come from or how they fit together. This makes any attempt at reform difficult because there are so many moving parts; more importantly, this lack of clarity creates a lot of confusion about what exactly we’re trying to fix.

Even if there were an obvious point for reformers to focus on—there would still be questions about whether those organisations should exist or be something else entirely (like another government entity).

Housing policy has a lot of winners and a lot of losers.

The winners in this story are the people who own their homes, and the losers are those who rent. In other words, we’re talking about homeowners versus renters. And while not everyone can afford a house, most people over time have done.

However, in the past 30 years, that has slowly turned the other way with the massive increase in land value, making it impossible compared to stagnant wages. 

That’s why many rent-burdened households today and fewer young people own homes.

Renters who make below £30K per year cannot afford much unless they use a bank of mum and dad. 

As policymakers continue searching for solutions to the affordable housing crisis, it’s a generation of young people with no security and spiralling costs which continue to suffer. The term has become meaningless because it can mean many things to many different people.

But there is no doubt that families across the UK are struggling with rising rents. It isn’t just an issue of semantics—it affects millions of households paying too much money each month for shelter. Affordable housing exists, but it’s now taken up by a growing number of people who need it because wages and the cost of living spiral. 

But it’s not as simple as saying “build more houses!” or “make them cheaper!” 

Instead, we need comprehensive solutions that address supply and demand factors impacting housing costs, such as land cost, planning laws and housing choices. 

In our opinion, buyers and renters need more choice, that’s why we exist, to create Better Places to Live Co-designed by the people who will live in them.

Why not take our 1 minute quiz to see if you need a ‘better place to live

https://betterplacestolive.scoreapp.com/

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In the heart of every community, there are stories of resilience, unity, and transformation. These stories often go unnoticed, yet they are the threads that weave the fabric of our society. At A Fairer Society, we believe in the power of these stories and the impact of micro grants in fostering local community connections.

Ayeeyo & Awoowo: Fostering Community Wellbeing

In the Somali Elderly community, a simple gathering became a beacon of hope and unity. Ayeeyo & Awoowo, with the help of a micro grant from A Fairer Society, organised a heartwarming meet-up designed to promote mental health and wellbeing. The event was a resounding success, with delicious food, great company, and an atmosphere of unity and support. This story is a testament to how small grants can have a profound impact on local communities.

Eastville Warm + Welcome Space: A Haven of Support and Camaraderie

The Eastville Warm + Welcome Space is another example of how a micro grant can transform a community. The grant allowed the group to purchase food items for their lunch meals, creating a space where everything is ‘free’ of cost. This approach fostered a richer connection with everyone, creating a space of no judgement and no monetary requirements. The impact of this initiative was far-reaching, with participants reporting the importance of meeting people in their communities and having a warm space to visit.

Rebecca Oregan: Beautifying Streets and Fostering Community Spirit

Rebecca Oregan used her micro grant to beautify her street and foster a sense of community among her neighbours. She purchased mainly second-hand pots and new plants, sparking renewed discussions about gardening and planting for pollinators. The initiative not only lifted the street’s aesthetics but also raised awareness about the importance of front gardens and recycling.

Ridgeway Road: Building Stronger Communities

Ridgeway Road’s story is a testament to the power of community. Their micro grant was used to purchase plants, compost, paintbrushes, and new 20mph signs. The event brought together residents from approximately 20 households, with around 15 children free to play together in the street. The feedback from neighbours and kids has been overwhelmingly positive, with lots of demand to do it again!

School Uniform: Saving Money and Reducing Waste

The School Uniform project used their micro grant to buy plastic storage boxes for their used school uniform collection. This initiative not only saved uniforms from going to waste but also saved parents money. The project is a great example of how small grants can make a big difference in local communities.

Conclusion

These heartwarming stories highlight the power of micro grants in fostering local community connections. They show that even the smallest gestures can make a big difference, creating a ripple effect of positive change in our communities.

At A Fairer Society, we believe in the power of community and the impact of small actions. We invite you to join us in our mission to create a fairer society. See what difference you could make in your community, follow A Fairer Society. #AFairerSociety #CommunityImpact

Why not take our 1 minute quiz to see if you need a ‘better place to live’

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Confronting the Eco-Conscious & Greener Living Challenge

Embracing an eco-conscious lifestyle often feels like playing a real-life game of snakes and ladders. We all understand the importance of minimizing our impact on the planet, yet this effort often feels like a constant uphill battle. Despite our best intentions for greener living, systemic issues often set us back, such as the lack of commitment from governments and corporations, and the sheer ubiquity of non-recyclable plastics. It can seem overwhelming, and at times, like hitting the top of the snake and sliding back down, we’re tempted to give up.

House Building Industry: A Key Emitter

One industry where this struggle is particularly evident is house building, known for being one of the top emitters of carbon. At A Fairer Society, we aim to disrupt this trend, committed to creating eco-conscious and greener living housing solutions. Yet, making a dent in such a colossal industry is a monumental challenge.

Overcoming the Challenge: Our Three-Pronged Approach

To tackle this greener living / eco-conscious journey effectively, we’ve developed a three-pronged approach for our housing development projects.

1. Collective Approach: When like-minded people come together with a shared goal, they can make significant strides in their eco-journey. We facilitate the creation of such groups, fostering collaborative action and accelerating change.
2. Finding Your Tribe: It’s essential to find people who walk the talk. We focus on bringing together individuals who aren’t merely eco-conscious in theory but practice sustainable living in their daily lives. This commitment ensures that our collective approach doesn’t falter, and we keep moving towards our shared goals.
3. Intentionality: Finally, we encourage our community to be intentional in their eco-efforts. Setting clear, achievable goals to tread lighter on the planet can create a powerful momentum for change. When you find people who share this intention, the collective impact can be incredible.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

Becoming eco-conscious may be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With a collective approach, the right team, and clear intentions, we can climb the ladders of eco-conscious / greener living together. While we may encounter snakes along the way, they are merely setbacks, not endpoints. Remember, every small step taken is a victory for our planet. Follow us for more on our journey towards a fairer, more sustainable society.

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Some critics argue that an organisation is nothing more than a group of individuals sharing a brand name and a bank account. They argue that an organisation is a nonexistent entity, a construct used to extract resources, shirk personal responsibility, and benefit a few at the expense of many. At A Fairer Society, we respectfully disagree. We believe that an organisation is far more than its constituent parts – it is a complex, living entity that forms from the web of relationships among its members.

What is a Working Community?

An organisation is best understood as a working community. Within this community, relationships interconnect to create a meaningful, distinctive entity – one that individuals can identify with and feel a part of. Depending on the nature of these relationships and the dynamics within the community, it can be a thriving, healthy entity or a toxic, dysfunctional one.

The Commons: More Than Shared Resources

In this working community, the shared resources, or “commons,” aren’t just the tangible assets like a bank account or a brand name. The commons also encompass values, goals, shared responsibilities, and the collective actions that shape the community’s character and operations.

Organisations: Catalysts for Positive Change or Exploitation?

To truly appreciate the dynamics of this working community, consider the infamous case of Enron. Here, a singular focus on extracting maximum profits led to a highly exploitative relationship with the commons, which became the defining characteristic of their community. But organisations can also embody values of fairness, cooperation, and mutual benefit. It’s about how we relate to the commons – whether we choose to exploit or collaborate.

Beyond Shared Accounts and Brand Names

Being part of an organisation implies more than a common name and a shared account. It also involves shared values, decisions, and relationships. Organisations, contrary to the belief of some, do exist and can be powerful catalysts for positive change. When harnessed right, they offer a framework for collaboration, collective decision-making, and the pursuit of shared goals.

Towards a Fairer Society: Our Advocacy

However, the potential for exploitation does exist. That’s why at A Fairer Society, we advocate for a more equitable, inclusive, and ethical approach to organisational membership and management. We recognise the power of organisations as vehicles for positive social impact when they foster environments of respect, shared responsibility, and fair resource distribution.

Conclusion: Changing the Narrative Around Organisations

So, let’s change the narrative around organisations. They are not just illusions constructed to evade responsibility or extract resources. Instead, organisations are tangible entities emerging from the web of relationships and shared resources within a working community. Acknowledging their existence allows us to explore the dynamics that shape them and work towards creating a fairer, more inclusive society.

As we continue this journey towards fostering a fairer society, we welcome you to join our dialogue on the nature and purpose of organisations. Let’s work together to build more inclusive, ethical, and productive working communities.

What can you do to improve your life and your community?

Take our 1 minute quiz. Simply answer 9 questions to see if you need a Better Place To Live.

You’ll be scored on the following; A home that meets your needs, a community and neighbourhood that works with your day-to-day life and is friendly to the earth.

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Most objections are to the disappointing results of traditional housing developers, who often fail to create connected communities. The typical urbanisation of rural land often overlooks what the community, nature, and the local economy genuinely need.

This blog proposes a new, regenerative, and progressive approach to rural community building.

This approach aims to foster connected communities by creating affordable homes (including for local people) and reviving rural communities through community engagement, land stewardship, sustainable farming, and technology.

The vision?

Transforming rural communities to create better places to live for everyone who wants to contribute their time, skills, or money to the rural economy. So forget about the big house in the countryside; let’s talk about a new type of rural economy.

Building Connected Communities: A New Type of Rural Economy

A regenerative approach to a new rural economy would prioritise the health and well-being of the local ecosystem, community, and economy. Such a project would involve creating a system prioritising regenerating and restoring natural resources while providing a sustainable and resilient economy that benefits residents and businesses. Here are some critical elements of a regenerative approach to a new rural economy:

1. Sustainable agriculture and land management:

Regenerate the health of the soil, increase biodiversity, and reduce the use of harmful chemicals. This would involve supporting local farmers or creating a path for new ones in transitioning to regenerative practices, promoting local food systems, and encouraging land management practices prioritising ecosystem health.

2. Renewable energy:

Prioritise using renewable energy and connecting this approach to a community-wide initiative to develop new local grids that benefit everyone.

3. Sustainable Tourism in Connected Communities: Beyond Airbnb

Supporting the local economy while preserving the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Such as eco-tourism and agritourism, and creating policies that support the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure. It wouldn’t be an Airbnb-type approach only.

4. Fostering Community-Based Economic Development in Connected Communities:

This would involve policies that support local entrepreneurship, providing access to resources and training to help small businesses, and promoting regional economic development that prioritises the health and well-being of the community—promoting a neighbourhood organising approach that brings everyone together.

5. Ecosystem restoration:

This would involve working with charities or organisations investing in projects that restore wetlands, forests, and other vital ecosystems, promoting conservation efforts, and creating policies that support the restoration and protection of natural resources.

Intentional Connected Communities: A New Approach

As our society continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change and the need for sustainable living practices, more and more people are looking for ways to create regenerative & connected communities that prioritise the health of the environment and the well-being of its residents.

A vital component of this approach is a regenerative housing strategy that supports sustainable, market, affordable, and community-oriented living options and ways to connect them.

One promising solution is cohousing, a community-based model that integrates social and ecological sustainability into the design and development of housing, usually called an intentional community.

In an intentional community, residents share common spaces, resources, and responsibilities while maintaining private living spaces. Cohousing communities foster community and social connection while prioritising ecological sustainability and affordability.

1. Community-oriented design:

Cohousing communities promote social interaction and community engagement. Cohousing often involves creating shared spaces for cooking, dining, and recreation and designing the community to encourage pedestrian traffic and reduce car dependence.

2. Ecological sustainability:

Cohousing communities are designed to prioritise ecological sustainability, often incorporating green building practices, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable land-use practices. As a result, it is helping to reduce the community’s carbon footprint and promote a more sustainable way of life.

3. Affordability:

Cohousing communities can include more affordable homes than traditional housing options, often through shared resources and community-owned spaces. For those living there, it makes cohousing a more accessible choice for people with lower incomes or those looking for a more affordable way of living because you get more for your money for the same price as a market-valued home.

Is this a place you’d like to live, work and play?

This connected communities approach has many elements to it, they don’t all have to be present – but its our intention to bring as many in to our work, so that we can provide a holistic community development approach to housing and rural economies. We don’t do it alone, its coproduced with a number of professionals, but most importantly with current and future residents all having their say and being able to shape the projects we do.

Ready to join the movement? Start by taking our 1-minute self-assessment here!

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Since its inception in Denmark, cohousing has spread globally, and today there are more than 2,000 communities worldwide. Living in a community with shared facilities can appeal to many people, but it is not for everyone. So as you read this, imagine yourself and consider whether cohousing would be a good fit for you and your lifestyle.

In the last few years, cohousing has become increasingly popular.

Cohousing has been around for a long time, but it’s still new to many. It’s a movement growing and becoming more popular in Europe and is already well recognised in North America as a housing choice. For those who choose it, however, the benefits are well worth it—especially for those who want an active community where they can grow as individuals and families while maintaining their privacy and independence.

There is no single way of defining what cohousing is.

First things first, it is NOT a commune. Communes grew during the 1960s and ’70s; people shared everything and loved it! The sharing elements are undoubtedly available in cohousing, but you have your home and front door to choose when to be present and active. 

There is no single way of defining what cohousing is. It can be a type of community, an intentional community, a residential development or a housing type (or all four). However, the term generally refers to any group committed to owning their own homes but sharing common facilities and resources.

The common thread seems to be ‘intentionality’.

Cohousing residents often say that cohousing is about “intentionality”. They refer to the quality of the relationships formed by living in close quarters with a group of people who share a common interest or purpose in the community. They define what that means by having a shared vision for how to live together.

This intentionality is an agreement (e.g., by signing a contract or covenant). The more important aspect is that members understand what they’re committing themselves to—and this understanding may change over time as new experiences are had by those involved. That comes into how you work together and govern yourselves as a community.

In the words of one experienced cohouser: “It is about building a community of like-minded people who know each other and welcome visitors.”

But getting to this point doesn’t happen overnight. Cohousing communities take time to build and develop their sense of community. 

I found that when it comes down to living together, we share the same fundamental goals:

• Self-determination and dignity for all residents
• Being accountable for our decisions through mutual support
• Working together toward a shared vision
• Having respect for diversity (including age differences)

These things comprise what is known as “the Cohousing Spirit.”

The thing to keep in mind is it isn’t just about the architecture. It’s not just an attractive design or a novel concept, but it’s also about building community. You see, you need to have people who move into your space for cohousing to work.

Cohousing may not be for everyone—there are many reasons why someone might not want to live this way—but if you’re considering it at all and wondering how much work it will take. 

People must put in the effort required to be part of this community structure.

Cohousing Experiences

1. Getting Started

Depending on your situation, you may find that cohousing is an impractical option. For example, it’s not something your family can afford unless everyone works together and contributes financially. But if you’re willing to put in a lot of hard work, this is one way to create affordable housing in an area where land is expensive and renting options are limited.

We recommend talking to other people who have lived in cohousing communities before deciding whether or not it’s right for you!

For many, it was an exhausting process of trying to find the right community and house. It also took a lot of time for people to find their place in cohousing and how they fit into the community.

It wasn’t just about finding a home or friends; it was about finding your purpose in life by being part of something larger than yourself. For others, this realisation came much later—sometimes only after years of living together as community members!

2. Decision-making processes

The importance of compromise.

Intentional communities & cohousing is a human-scaled way of living, and this means that there are times when residents may have to compromise with each other. Compromising can be difficult for some people, but it’s part of being in cohousing because you’re sharing resources with others and working together towards common goals. Cohousers learn how best practices like composting and recycling work so they can incorporate them into their daily lives without impacting their neighbours’ enjoyment of living at home.

Being willing to change your mind:

Because everyone has different needs and desires within the same space, there will inevitably be disagreements, especially when trying something new; however, these experiences help create stronger bonds among neighbours.

3. Neighbours and Sharing Resources

Cohousing is a great way to get to know your neighbours. You see them daily, and they become like extended family. Cohousing is an outward-looking approach. Working with and understanding the wider community is essential. They can participate in regular events and sometimes even go on trips together.

Many cohousers speak about how important it is for people to share resources, especially cooking ingredients or help with the kids, or support if feeling unwell, anxious or lonely.

“An essential aspect for many residents is interacting with neighbours and sharing some activities.”

In cohousing, you will be sharing a common space with your neighbours. It is important to remember that there is always the potential for conflict and disagreements in this kind of living situation. However, by being mindful of your actions and trying to get along with others, it is possible to ensure that you live in harmony with everyone around you.

4. Visiting other Communities? How long does it take to feel at home?

Residents who move into cohousing communities are often eager to meet other residents and have an opportunity to learn more about the community. However, some feel intimidated by the prospect of visiting a new cohousing community because they fear that they won’t fit in or that they won’t feel comfortable.

One way to overcome such fears is by visiting before signing on as a resident. After all, its community and getting on with and aligning with the vision is 100% necessary. In addition, vice Versa, cohousing groups need to believe and feel optimistic about you or anyone entering their community.

After moving in, your next step is to get involved with all aspects of life at your new home—from joining committees and attending meetings to helping with cooking and sharing meals. Even doing some chores, Some people find this challenging at first but soon realise how fun it can be for everyone involved when we share responsibilities equally within our own four walls (literally).

Conclusion

You now know the basics of cohousing and what it means to be part of a community like this. It isn’t a hippy commune! Or a house share. But a more simple way of living. You need less space for private use because you have more common areas to be with your neighbours, family, or friends. 

Your neighbours align with you and how you want to live because they share the same purpose and vision. Ideally, this creates a harmonious way of living, and you get a support network of people around you. It is a true win-win.

It might not seem like something you would be interested in, but we hope this article has given you some insight into what life is like in one of these intentional communities. 

If you’re still unsure whether cohousing is right for you, then perhaps you can read the Better Places to Live buyer’s guide. Then, seeing how intentional communities could be for you, you’ll get a good flavour of what we have done. We want more people to live this way, without the pressure of having to create it themselves.

What can you do to improve your life and your community?

Take our 1 minute quiz. Simply answer 9 questions to see if you need a Better Place To Live.

You’ll be scored on the following; A home that meets your needs, a community and neighbourhood that works with your day-to-day life and is friendly to the earth.

Help to spread the word about Cohousing, Better Places to Live and creating A Fairer Society.

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We are living in a society that dreams of wealth and success. We want to be rich, famous, and successful to live our best life. But the quest for this is damaging our society. So are we living lives or just working to live?

Work to live, or live to work?

There is a difference between working to live and living to work. Work and life are very different, and we must recognize the distinction. One shouldn’t be instead of the other; however, many people feel as though they have no choice but to choose one or the other. The cost of living and pressures on us demand it.

Work-life balance is a topic that comes up frequently in conversations at work or among friends because we all want to enjoy our lives and find meaning in what we do every day. And while this may seem like an easy thing to do—we can’t just go home after work and switch off! So how do you ensure there’s still room for enjoyment within its structure (or even outside of it)? Take care of yourself first, then worry about how much money you’ll make later. Easier said than done; I hear you say.

Working too hard means missing out on other essential areas of life

If you’re spending all of your time working, it means that you’re not happy. If you don’t enjoy your job, this will likely affect how hard you work. On the other hand, if you are exhausted and overworked, then it is likely that this will also affect the quality of work that employees do.

If people feel like they have no control over their lives, they are more likely to feel depressed and stressed out with no control over their circumstances (even if those circumstances weren’t ideal).

We all need to take a step back from our careers sometimes; otherwise, we run the risk of burning out entirely or feeling resentful towards our colleagues and employers. Or worse, our family and loved ones.

Not everyone can afford to take time off

Not everyone can take time off. While it’s easy for those with high-paid jobs that allow for travel and flexibility, many people cannot afford to take a week off from work and get away from it. 

Travelling is expensive, especially if you’re taking kids with you or have other financial obligations such as a mortgage or family members who depend on your income. Some people also have chronic illnesses or disabilities that limit their ability to travel long distances without difficulty.

There are also people without savings accounts; they don’t want to spend money on something frivolous when there are bills to pay and food on the table.

Enjoying life doesn’t have to be expensive

Many of us have forgotten how to enjoy life in a world where we are busy working to live. We think that to enjoy our life, we need to spend money. But this is not the case! Unfortunately, this is the society we see around us on social media. 

Instead of buying things, we should focus on building memories and experiences with our loved ones. Have fun in nature or start new hobbies. These activities will bring you closer as a family and make for great stories later in life when you look back at them together.

Sometimes the only solution is to make a change

All of the above is well and good, but what if you cannot leave your job? What if it’s taking a toll on your health, time with family and friends, or happiness? Then you must find a different solution; spending time in nature won’t cut it.

Sometimes we need to do something drastic to fix our problems. Sometimes we need to make changes for other parts of our life (like our career or the place we live) to improve or even stay afloat. For example, if you have a job that is causing anxiety or stress because of its demands on your time and energy, then maybe it’s time for some self-care by finding another position that allows for more balance between work responsibilities and personal obligations. Perhaps when you come home from work, your neighbourhood brings even more stress. Noisy neighbours or miles away from family and friends. These pressures will get you more focused on the job you hate.

What’s essential in life?

Many of us have a very mundane everyday life. Most days, when you leave the house, you go to work and then come home again. Spend most evenings and weekends in front of a screen, and it doesn’t have to be that way! It could change where you live or work, and it’s a choice.

We all value things in our lives more than money or fame: family, friends, and health are just some of them. We also have hobbies that make us happy, maybe even creative outlets through which we express ourselves spatially (art) or verbally (music).

We enjoy travel because it broadens our minds and helps us connect with other cultures and learn about new places and people worldwide – whether travelling alone or on holiday with friends or family members; whatever works best for everyone involved!

Work-life balance is essential when it comes down to living well, but sometimes balancing all these things together is difficult, especially if work takes up so much time during weekdays. In contrast, weekends should be time to relax at home, with downtime together without distractions! However, without working hard firstly, we can’t afford to live, never mind the fun, so both feel like they need each other equally for quality living conditions throughout life’s stages. This is the broken system we can’t escape.

Conclusion

What a complicated topic, and I don’t claim to have all the answers. However, I know that we need to find a balance between work and life. If you feel your job is taking over everything else in your life, then maybe it’s time to make some significant changes. 

But also, how can your home life be improved with small or subtle changes by the people you have around your community or neighbourhood? Maybe, it’s something an intentional community can bring you. 

What can you do to improve your life and your community?

Take our 1 minute quiz. Simply answer 9 questions to see if you need a Better Place To Live.

You’ll be scored on the following; A home that meets your needs, a community and neighbourhood that works with your day-to-day life and is friendly to the earth.

Help to spread the word about Cohousing, Better Places to Live and creating A Fairer Society.

Follow, like and share our mission across social media.

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

The post We are a society working to live. Can we change? appeared first on A Fairer Society.

You must feel there is a better, more resilient, healthier way to live. And there are lots of people already doing it or working towards this life. 

The 24-hour rolling news cycle, aided by social media, means we are constantly distracted by a new crisis. Each situation creates more division as everyone has an opinion on the news, on our social feeds, at work, and in the coffee shop. Housing problems, energy prices, toxic workplaces, isolation, and loneliness are all around us. Unfortunately, a lot of this is hidden. Especially if your life is fast-paced, working hard or surviving.

The systems we rely on run by government and business, the ones we look to for support, or guidance, are not helping most of us anymore. You can think you’re doing okay, but when you peel back a few layers, things can suddenly get a bit shaky. So most of us pretend not to notice or ignore the realities and do our best to live as best we can. 

Can our systems be fixed?

Solving these complex, systemic, and, frankly, scary crises is not an easy task for anyone. Just look at those in power who seem to be the causes of some of these issues! 

Who is on our side; me, you and our neighbours, friends and family? It all gets too political, and there is a feeling or sense of inaction. The powers that be circle the real issues when it seems obvious or doable to do the right thing. Our opinion is that capitalism has gone too far, and the fairer way of doing things is to own it together, hold the problems and come up with the solutions. 

Build more energy-efficient homes, generate on-site renewable energy, focus on connected communities (not car-dominated housing estates), and foster ways for people to live, work and play in their neighbourhoods by creating more green or amenity spaces. That is a way to go for us; as a starting point, it’s what we are working for, daily. 

Still, this approach seems radical when you see it in the news and on social media.

We have seen that positive actions seem like a nuisance or an inconvenience to those who have the power to create them as part of their housing, energy or community strategies in government and business. It’s left to people to pick up the pieces and try them themselves.

So, what brought you to our community? 

Are you looking to…

1. Join a movement toward better places to live
2. Create or become part of a thriving community
3. Introduce sociocracy in the workplace
4. All of the above!

Why do we think this is the time and place?

A Fairer Society began with our desire to do something about housing choices. But that grew into workplaces and communities because of what we found and now know. They are all connected. And, they are all reliant on you, your neighbours and me – it’s a collective ‘we’. 

We live in houses, go to the shops, work in the factories, offices, or public services, and we are members of our community – whether that’s hobbies, spiritual activity, sports, arts or social. It’s us that prop up the whole of society. 

Everything is connected, happiness, health, economy, culture, community, land, nature, food, transport, consumption and how we govern ourselves all rely on one or the other in some way or form. So that’s why we must take back control. Politics is failing us, whatever colour your party is. 

But, we must take back control collectively, cooperatively and with the planet in mind. Not in a toxic way. It’s time for healthy power.

What is needed is a way to live in a community, a place or location that suits your life, so you can do your bit to live this way. We need to unshackle the old ways and believe we can design and build a life, whatever stage we are at, to fit our identity. Some of us might have lost that identity for many reasons, which is why we think capitalism has gone too far. It plays the game for something other than social, environmental and personal identity. We’ve forgotten how to be part of our tribe and neighbourhood – we’re too busy or disconnected from those around us.

If you could get all your neighbours to meet up and talk about some of these issues in your local neighbourhood, everyone would have their own opinion, and small clusters of you would care about the same things. Others wouldn’t. But it is proven that a stable connection dilutes the division – it balances the conversation. We don’t believe everyone should think the same. Hell NO! That would be a terrible, unfair, society. We need to learn how to listen again. Listen and talk without thinking we have to be correct; we’re all guilty in some way, shape or form. 

What do we do before it’s too late? Your next step…

A Fairer Society creates the containers, groups or whatever you want to call them to help you connect, and then we provide you with the tools to get the job done. 

First, make a difference in what matters to you – at home, work or in your community. So connecting and joining in at some level is your next step. And you’ve made headway by reading this blog. 

We know it is not possible to get there in a short time. So slow and steady with real purpose for where we want to go. That is the name of our game and has to be yours too.

Imagine everything was marginally Fairer, Better, Healthier. You’d notice the changes immediately. 

Our way is to copy what works in business, but we use new ideas, technologies, and skills and put them in your hands, so you can healthily govern yourselves. Learn more about it here: https://afairersociety.com/co-op-homes-the-heartward-way/

Not much will change in your day-to-day life by working alone. However, working together and with us will change things for the better. You will feel valued and loved and have a voice in what matters to you, so it is owned and controlled by you.

That’s A Fairer Society. That’s us, you and everyone together.

What can you do to improve your life and your community?

Take our 1 minute quiz. Simply answer 9 questions to see if you need a Better Place To Live.

You’ll be scored on the following; A home that meets your needs, a community and neighbourhood that works with your day-to-day life and is friendly to the earth.

Help to spread the word about Cohousing, Better Places to Live and creating A Fairer Society.

Follow, like and share our mission across social media.

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

The post How can you live in A Fairer Society? Well, it just got a lot easier. appeared first on A Fairer Society.

Co-op homes and cohousing fit beautifully together. They are made for each other. 

This blog plots the journey of Heartward Cohousing, an intentional community we’ve worked with for five years. Together, we are committed to showing there is a better way of living, using co-op homes. 

For those of you who want a better place to live, it is possible.

Heartward Cohousing is an intentional community

Co-housing is an intentional community of people sharing resources and values. Still, each has their own home and private space.

Cohousing is an alternative to traditional residential estates or apartment blocks. 

There are many benefits to cohousing: it can be affordable, inclusive and diverse, is environmentally sustainable and makes it easier for older adults to age in place (that is, continue to live independently).

The Heartward Journey – What the world needs

Heartward Cohousing society is precisely what the world needs, set up by a group of people directly taking action on the problems that need addressing from their point of view. They are making big decisions about their future lives.

In 2017, we ran some events in East Sussex; it was the start of something fresh and visionary. Of course, like any new project, there is a lot of energy and endeavour at the beginning. But for some, the reality of the time it takes was hard to commit to.

In the past 5 years, a few iterations of this beautiful project evolved, and some people have come and gone. 

What are the problems being addressed?

Housing Crisis

It should be no surprise that we have a housing crisis in the UK. 

The system works against many of us, with too many barriers and obstacles. As a result, too many housebuilders and developers are part of the problem rather than the solution.

Also, the cost of land means sky-high mortgage deposits and ever-increasing rent prices are likely to impact those of us caught in the crisis. And somehow, you’re being told that this is your fault. Either you need to save more, or you spend too much. Systemic problems can’t be easily overcome, so don’t believe it is your fault. Many reasons are out of your control that make this crisis nearly unsolvable in its current guise. 

We have a fighting chance when people work together for a common cause. This is what Heartward believe in and fights for.

Community

It won’t be much fun if you feel lonely or isolated in your neighbourhood. The place you live in might make you feel disconnected from your day-to-day life and society.

Heartward and cohousing is a solution to this problem. Connectedness and being part of a community are built in from day one. Being with your neighbours is what it’s about, but you also have a front door and private space when you need to be with your family or on your own. 

Energy & Climate

Climate change adds more pressure to an already heightened energy crisis and situation. But, unfortunately, while you may want to, being ecological is tough. Whether for financial reasons or because other stresses are taking precedence, many of us don’t have the option to be greener and the systems around us don’t make it easy either.

Heartward Cohousing has ideas and solutions that the community deals with as much as possible. For example, from the design of the buildings, using renewable technologies, reducing waste, growing food, or sharing in the costs associated. This means you can reduce the money spent in simple but effective ways, whilst a collective approach to treading lighter on the planet suddenly becomes more manageable.

Car Culture

The convenience of the car means that people opt for driving over walking or riding a bike. In addition, communities are now being built with cars in mind instead of in a way that encourages us to make healthier transport choices. Compounded by the fact public transport in most parts of the UK is now substandard.

Many people are trying to elicit positive change in Low Traffic Neighbourhoods. However, they find themselves up against convenience culture. Heightened by the landscape surrounding poor public transport doesn’t help either. Only when we come together to use our voices and take action can we start to make real change. Heartward’s approach is carpooling, and car sharing, reducing by half the number of cars a traditional development would cater for.

So where are we, and what’s next?

Well, we are securing land opportunities and working with them on the process any house builder would. Feasibility. There are many ways to get what you want, but we can only help them build what’s affordable to them and the broader group of people they bring in.

This is where the principles and pillars of what Heartward believe in can easily get lost. Most housebuilders don’t consider the same things, so it would be easy to say they can’t afford it.

But that’s not the point. Our search might take us to a place the members of Heartward didn’t want to start with, so it’s whether they can adjust or compromise. 

Take a look at Heartward for yourself → https://www.heartward.co/

Do you want to join us?

The process of Co-Production is at the centre of the work we all do together. Co-Create, Co-Design, Co-Fund and finally, Co-Build. There is a plan, and you can be a part of it, but it’s different to buying a home. You are self-building a dream. You are a part of a building project (but don’t worry, you don’t have to get your hands dirty unless you want to!). 

We are all working together to achieve Better Places to Live.

This is our direct action to change how traditionally housing is created and built. There are several variations of cohousing communities, and we are making the Heartward one. 

Would you like to join Heartward Cohousing? Well, you can – but firstly, you have to start on yourself and know whether you are a fit for them, and they are a fit for you.

Be the change that so many are by taking the first step and doing our Better Places to Live Quiz.

Change your mindset positively to add value to Heartward, or if they aren’t for you right now, maybe in the future a similar cohousing community when the time is right…

What can you do to improve your life and your community?

The first step is to take our 1 minute quiz. Simply answer 9 questions to see if you need a Better Place To Live.

You’ll be scored on the following; A home that meets your needs, a community and neighbourhood that works with your day-to-day life and is friendly to the earth.

Help to spread the word about Cohousing, Better Places to Live and creating A Fairer Society.

Follow, like and share our mission across social media.

• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

The post Co-op homes: The Heartward Way appeared first on A Fairer Society.