CDS Co-operatives is a UK charitable community benefit society and registered social landlord, established in 1975 to support the development of housing co-operatives.34 Its stated purpose is to provide, support and promote co-operative and community-led housing, enabling residents and communities to have greater influence over housing and neighbourhood decisions.38
The organisation operates primarily across London and the South East of England.89 As a housing provider, it owns and manages social rented and leasehold homes in London and the home counties; its website reports approximately 750 social rented homes and 300 leasehold properties.4 CDS also acts as a co-operative support agency, providing landlord and business-management services to housing co-operatives and working with more than 35 co-ops, according to its LinkedIn profile.3 Its work includes supporting housing management, organisational development and the growth of community-led housing.28
CDS is regulated by the Regulator of Social Housing and registered with the Financial Conduct Authority.8 The organisation has around 45 employees and uses a hybrid working model, with office space in London Bridge.2 Its current office contact details identify Unit A, Arc House, 82 Tanner Street, London SE1 3GN.11
Tom Bremner is the Chief Executive, while Juliet Lack is Chair of the Board of Management.215 The board has ultimate responsibility for the organisation’s governance and is elected by CDS members.5 CDS was formed in April 1975 in response to opportunities created by the Housing Act 1974, originally to help establish housing co-operatives in partnership with local authorities and communities.10