Preston Digital Co-operative Meeting

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Venue: Function Room, Preston Town Hall.

Tony Dawber attended on behalf of PCN.

In attendance: Peter Griffiths (PCC), TD, Zafar Coupland, Shaun Fensom & Graham Mitchell (Co-op Group), various VCSFE group reps.

Meeting called to discuss setting up of a Digital Co-operative in Preston

SF gave presentation on how co-operatives work and explained a ‘thin layer’ model which was recommended for the PDC.

Essence is of a shared resource, using cabling and heavier resources from larger groups such as NHS and local councils.

PG advised funding pledged from Preston CC to project.

Membership is £1 per annum.

TD asked re withdrawal from group. PG advised can do so at any time with no penalties.

Five signatories required on a legal document to set up PDC but in absence of this SF said a Memorandum of Understanding agreeing to hold a founding meeting would be a start.

VCFSE groups expressed caution and advised they needed OK from Trustees before signing.

TD said PCN in same position.

Agreed parties to discuss further and reconvene in Mid-April to hopefully set up.