OurCoop Women’s Voices 2026

On Tuesday 3rd March, colleagues and members from across OurCoop gathered at the Derbyshire County Cricket Ground for a very special occasion: the annual Women’s Voices event.

This year’s event was particularly meaningful. It was the first Women’s Voices since Central Co-op, Chelmsford Star and Midcounties Co-operative came together to create OurCoop, bringing together people from across the newly formed society. The event sold out, with a packed room of colleagues, members and guests ready to listen, share experiences and learn from one another ahead of International Women’s Day.

With the theme “Give to Gain”, the day focused on the power of supporting others, sharing knowledge and building stronger communities together.

Inspirational voices

We were delighted to welcome a host of inspirational guest speakers who shared powerful personal stories and insights.

Among them was Dame Jasvinder Sanghera CBE, whose advocacy and lived experience continues to inspire and empower women everywhere. Her speech was deeply moving and impactful, challenging the audience to reflect on the importance of standing up for others, speaking out against injustice and building communities where everyone feels safe and heard.

Her words resonated strongly with those whp attended and sparked meaningful conversations that continued throughout the day.

Alongside Jasvinder, other guest speakers shared perspectives on leadership, advocacy and social change, reinforcing the power of women’s voices in shaping more inclusive workplaces and communities.

Among them was Tracey Orr, who shared her leadership journey in sport and governance, discussing the challenges and opportunities women face in traditionally male-dominated environments.

We also heard from Hannah Sadula of Unite, who spoke about Period Dignity, highlighting the importance of tackling stigma and ensuring access to essential products.

Later, campaigner Roxanne Ellis from the DES Campaign UK shared insights into the organisation’s work advocating for women affected by the drug Diethylstilbestrol (DES), reminding the audience of the importance of listening to and believing women’s experiences.

These sessions reinforced the event’s central message: when women speak up and support each other, meaningful change becomes possible.

Workshops that sparked real discussion

The day also featured a series of interactive workshops, offering attendees the opportunity to explore important topics in a supportive and engaging environment.

Sessions covered themes including child loss bereavement support, caring through dementia, challenging misogyny in everyday language and culture, and creative wellbeing activities. These workshops encouraged honest conversations, practical learning and reflection — creating space for participants to share experiences and support one another.

For many attendees, these smaller group discussions became some of the most valuable moments of the day.

Supporting women and girls

As part of OurCoop’s ongoing commitment to supporting women and girls, the event also supported the Period Dignity campaign, led by Unite the Union.

Attendees were invited to donate sanitary products — including tampons, pads, menstrual cups, liners, period pants and intimate wipes — helping to ensure fair access to essential period products for those who need them most.

The generosity shown on the day reflected the cooperative values that underpin the event: community, solidarity and mutual support.

A powerful first Women’s Voices for OurCoop

Bringing together colleagues and members from across the three societies that now form OurCoop made this year’s Women’s Voices particularly special.

It was a powerful reminder that when people come together to listen, learn and share their experiences, they strengthen not only themselves but the wider cooperative movement too.

As we approach International Women’s Day, the message from Derby was clear: women’s voices matter — and when they are heard, real change can follow.