GLL is attending the Co-operatives UK Congress 4-5 July – a national celebration of the UK’s most inspiring and innovative worker-owned co-operatives.

This event - during Co-op Fortnight - brings together over 500 delegates and features keynote speakers including Lucy Powell MP and Andy Burnham, Mayor of Manchester.

GLL's Newcastle and Gateshead Partnership Manager Alison Westworth will take part in the session ‘We Can Be Heroes’ on Saturday from 11:45am to 12:45pm.

She comments: "Being rooted in community means being responsible stewards of the environment. Retrofitting leisure centres – many of which are several decades old – is no small task, but we have embraced the challenge by securing funding and delivering impactful upgrades. We're here for the long-term and that means acting responsibly for current generations and those to come."

"These efforts are not just anecdotal – they are measurable. GLL has pledged to deliver £8 billion in social value as part of our 2023 to 2027 Corporate Plan. According to a Data Hub case study, every £1 spent by GLL on delivering activities generates over £4.60 in social value – equivalent to £557 per customer. It's something we're incredibly proud of."

All sessions can be seen on the Co-operatives UK websiteopen_in_new.