The London Federation of Housing Co‑ops (LFHC) is the umbrella body for tenant‑controlled housing across the capital. For over thirty years, we have met in London to bring together housing co‑operatives of all sizes—supporting communities where residents manage their own homes and futures.
Our Mission
We exist to strengthen, connect, and champion housing co‑ops in London.
- Support & Training: For decades, LFHC has provided training and practical support to several hundred housing co‑ops across the capital.
- Forums & Meetings: We hold quarterly forums and other meetings, for members to learn, share experiences, and build solidarity.
- Networking & Solidarity: We offer a vital point of contact, enabling co‑ops to meet, exchange knowledge, and collaborate with other tenant‑controlled housing groups.
- Campaigning & Advocacy: We raise the profile of co‑ops and lobby for policies that protect tenant‑controlled housing.
- Visibility & Outreach: Showcasing the role of co‑ops in providing affordable, democratic alternatives to private renting.
Democratic Structure
LFHC is a members‑led democratic body, guided by an elected executive committee and officers. We are also affiliated to the London Tenants Federation, strengthening our collective voice across the wider social housing movement.
History & Representation
- 1991 – Formation: LFHC established as a members‑led democratic body.
- 1990s – Training & Support: Early programs to strengthen governance and management in housing co‑ops.
- 2000s – Forums & Networking: Expansion of regular forums and meetings across London.
- 2010s – Affiliation: LFHC affiliated to the London Tenants Federation, amplifying its campaigning voice.
- 2020s – Advocacy & Representation. Since 2019, LFHC has been represented on the London Housing Panel, a body jointly established by the Mayor of London and Trust for London to give community and housing organisations a formal voice in shaping policy at the Greater London Authority. Through this role, LFHC ensures that housing co‑ops, tenant groups, and community organisations are heard, with the panel prioritising issues such as expanding social housing supply, improving affordability, and strengthening tenant representation in decision making.
- 2024 – Relaunch & Outreach: LFHC takes on a part‑time coordinator to help relaunch our work and expand outreach.
- 2025 onwards – Training & Education: LFHC plans to roll out new training and education programmes for federation members, instilling the ethos, history and principles of the co‑op movement to strengthen collective capacity and democratic practice.
Participation
We welcome participation from housing co‑op members, other social housing tenants, and anyone interested in the aims and principles of the housing co‑op sector. LFHC is a space for collective learning, solidarity, and action.
Why It Matters
Housing co‑ops are more than homes—they are communities built on democracy, affordability, and collective empowerment. LFHC ensures these values thrive by giving co‑ops the tools, voice, and solidarity they need.