Join the Co-op

Become part of a member-led community that turns empty properties into affordable homes

How our housing model works

BDHC offers short-life housing in West London for people who can live independently and want to help manage their homes responsibly. We provide temporary, affordable accommodation through a private co-operative housing model. Joining the co-op does not guarantee long-term housing or rehousing. The criteria below outline who we can safely and appropriately accommodate.

What Membership Means

Our members don’t have tenancies — they hold licences to occupy properties the co-op manages on behalf of landlords. In return for affordable rent, members help keep homes in good condition and take part in the co-op’s activities.

How It Works

Here’s how we turn empty properties into affordable homes and opportunities for our members.

Apply

Submit your expression of interest using our online contact form. Our Membership Secretary will then contact you to begin your assessment.

Match

We place new members into suitable short-life homes as they become available.

Participate

Members participate in regular meetings, help with reporting and contribute to the governance of the co-op.

Who Can Apply

We work with people committed to creating stable, affordable housing through shared responsibility.

We’re not a supported housing provider and can’t offer care or specialist support.

We welcome adults who:

can live independently and manage a household
are committed to community responsibility
can contribute time to co-op activities
are able to pay monthly rent and licence fees by standing order
are from diverse backgrounds

New members must be;

over 18 years old
able to prove they have the right to rent in the UK
single without dependents
on a low income
without priority needs
ineligible for the council housing register

Benefits of Membership

The practical advantages of joining BDHC

Affordable short term housing

Live affordably in good-quality homes while helping protect empty properties.

Connect with like minded people

Join a community of people who value cooperation and independence.

Skills in co-op property management

Gain hands-on experience maintaining homes and contributing to decisions.

Contribution to local social impact

Support community projects and positive use of under-used housing.

Responsibilities of Membership

Being part of the co-op means sharing responsibility — for our homes, for each other, and for the local community.

Keep your home safe, clean, and compliant
Pay your license fee on time
Take responsibility for council tax and utilities
Report repairs promptly
Participate in meetings
Follow co-op rules and policies
Leave the property clear and in good condition when your licence ends

What Our Members Say

Real voices from our community

I thought that it would be great to join a community of like-minded people helping each other, and the wider community, with the benefit of living in affordable accommodation.

Alex

Sound Engineer

I love where we live; it is vibrant, friendly and the community spirit is alive and well. I contribute to my community and offer resources wherever possible to residents.

Zoe

Charity Co-ordinator

I’m proud of the contribution our coop makes towards alleviating the housing crisis, by offering homes to those the co-operative model suits, providing genuinely affordable homes.

James

Retired Teacher

Frequently Asked Questions

BDHC provides affordable, temporary homes for people who are able to live independently while contributing to a co-operative community. This FAQ section answers common questions about eligibility, responsibilities, how placements work and the support available to all Members.