How do you nurture community collaboration?

Sometimes people new to cohousing have the impression that this approach to social living means that we have developed comprehensive processes, and that a cohousing community runs like a well-oiled machine. 

However none of us at Cannock Mill had prior experience of cohousing. We are all learning how to do it day by day and will probably continue to do that forever. We work collaboratively, learning from each other, adapting ourselves, and finding new ways together to live more harmoniously.

The community recognises that differences and conflict are a natural part of living and learning together, and we aim to approach them as opportunities for understanding, growth and positive change. We have drawn up conflict resolution recommendations to help us deal with conflicts which may arise. These recommendations are shared with members of the community and with people in our waiting pool who are considering joining the community.

We welcome new cohousers who will join in this experience, not just accepting change but becoming excited and engaged participants in it.