Putting the 'CO' into Coworking

When the pandemic hit, it changed our lives forever. It also changed the way we worked.

For many of us working from home (WFH) became the norm as the government sent us all into lockdown to protect us and our economy.

But there was a heavy human price to pay:

Loneliness and isolation
Distractions and lower productivity
Lack of structure to the working day
Mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.
Sense of disconnect with our colleagues
And no boundaries between work and home.

We may have put an end to the pandemic, but we haven’t ended the impact of WFH. They continue. They may be a little less severe than during the pandemic as we CAN leave our homes without any restrictions, but nevertheless they are still very much making waves and even headlines.

But within the Armed Forces community it’s a bigger issue. Especially for the military spouses and partners of our serving personnel.

Military life by its very nature can be lonely and isolating.

Loss of friends and families. Loss of professional networks. Loss of careers – many spouses find themselves having to opt for a career that simply works alongside military life as opposed to one that fulfils their dreams and aspirations. And constant relocations, sometimes every two years, and the sense of Groundhog Day that comes with each new posting.

Add into that military equation the effects of WFH, the whole situation takes on a whole new dimension.

Coworking – a practical solution

Coworking is not just about having a space to work or study. It’s more.

Here at the MCN, we believe it’s all about putting the ‘CO’ into coworking.

The four ‘CO’ pillars of our hub model are:

CO-mmunication
CO-llaboration
CO-nnection
CO-mmunity.

And it’s this winning formula that makes them perfect for tackling isolation and loneliness in the Armed Forces community.

Communication

Having regular touchpoints and opportunities to chat to your peers is important for your mental health. They say ‘expression’ is the opposite of ‘depression’ and it’s true. Being deprived of opportunities to communicate with your peers can lead to social isolation.

Communication, on the other hand, opens the doors to more social and emotional support, both important aspects of our overall wellbeing.

Having a physical space where you can simply pop in for a coffee and a natter whenever it suits, is a lifesaver.

“I’ve made so many new friendships through the hub. It gives me a place to go to where I can be with other like-minded people. People to talk to and laugh with, share problems and learn from.” Katja Johnson, Sandhurst Hub Member

Collaboration

When you’re working from home, especially when you run your own business, opportunities for effective collaboration are in short supply. But without it, you are at risk of stagnation. It needs to be fed and nurtured.

With members working across multiple industry sectors, our coworking hubs offer a platform for some fantastic diverse collaboration, boosting creativity and driving innovation, and creating a channel for personal and business growth.

“I’ve met people from all different fields, which has opened unexpected opportunities for collaboration and growth.” Jo Loly, Hereford Hub Member

Connection

Human connection is vital for well-being, impacting physical and mental health, fostering resilience, and promoting a sense of belonging, making it a true cornerstone of a balanced and fulfilling life.

For many spouses and partners who suddenly find themselves thrown into a lifestyle that differs so starkly from civilian life, away from their friends and families, and with their partners often away on exercise or longer-term operations, the coworking hubs become a vital lifeline.

Our hubs provide the perfect gateway to vital connections with people who understand your lifestyle and the challenges you face.

“Military life was a lifestyle I wasn’t familiar with; I was cut off from my normal work environment and was living in a place where I knew few people. The hubs have been a great way to connect with people.” Liv Bolton, Former Bovington and Blandford Hub Member

Community

Here at the MCN, we know that our members may come for the office space, but it's the community that keeps on bringing them back.

In fact, it’s the community aspect delivers the single biggest impact on members’ lives.

Coworking hubs create an environment where community thrives with a strong sense of belonging. They offer support and encouragement and create opportunities for networking and socialising. They improve wellbeing and happiness. In short, they’re community-building powerhouses.

"Nowadays, for so many people, community can only be found online on social media. But sometimes we need physical connection, a friendly word, a shoulder to lean on, even a simple hug. " Katyia Johnson, Sandhurst Hub Member

“Through the hub I’ve been able to meet some lovely people and make some brilliant friendships, friendships that extend far beyond the walls of the hub and seamlessly spill over into my private social life, which has improved my quality of life on base immensely.” Stephanie Barry, Former HMNB Clyde Hub Member