Co-operatives UK Youth Advisory Group 2026: Paid Opportunity for Young People Aged 16–30
Applications are open for the Co-operatives UK Youth Advisory Group 2026, offering young people aged 16 to 30 a paid opportunity to help shape the future of the co-operative movement.

Overview
The Co-operatives UK Youth Advisory Group (YAG) is an initiative designed to bring youth perspectives and strategic input into Co-operatives UK. Established in 2024, the group unites young people from diverse backgrounds to develop independent projects and provide advice on how co-operative values can address challenges facing younger generations.
Participants play a dual role in advising the organization and advocating for youth engagement. The initiative welcomes candidates with varying experience levels and backgrounds, bridging the gap between traditional business models and the priorities of youth.
Benefits
- Members of the Youth Advisory Group are paid for their time, recognizing their commitment and reducing financial barriers to participation.
- Opportunities to influence national organizational strategies and advocate for youth voice.
- Networking and collaboration with peers across different networks, community groups, and the wider co-operative movement.
- Skill development in strategic thinking, communication, advocacy, and public engagement.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be aged 16 to 30.
- No previous experience with co-operatives, university degrees, or formal professional qualifications are required.
- Open to students, recent graduates, young professionals, workers, volunteers, entrepreneurs, and community organizers.
How to Apply
Candidates can submit applications in written, video, or audio formats to accommodate different communication styles. Applicants must complete the official application form and submit it via email.
- Review the official information pack and application form via the official Co-operatives UK portal.
- Send completed applications to: [email protected]
Deadline
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday, 6 September 2026.
