// Social Enterprise
What is a Social Enterprise?
In it’s simplest form, the definition of a Social Enterprise is a “business trading for a social purpose”, but this may oversimplify things.
The DTi describe them as
“A social enterprise is a business with primarily social objectives whose surpluses are principally reinvested for that purpose in the business or in the community, rather than being driven by the need to maximise profit for shareholders and owners.”
Don’t get hung up by definitions. Social Enterprises are not a new thing, and can trace their origins back to the “Rochdale Pioneers” of the 1840’s (and some may argue they have existed before then).
However, see the following links for more discussion on Social Enterprise.
SFUK,SEEE, SEC etc…
Workskills has staff with, arguably, unique knowledge and experience in this area. That of managing the start up of a successful SE, taught Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative (SFEDI) accredited level 3/4 management subjects to other managers in such enterprises, gained level 5 Institute Leadership & Management SE qualification, a qualified solicitor (but don’t let that put you off), and closely involved in the development of Social Return On Investment and performance dashboard as social accounting tools for Social Firms UK. Working closely with local Business Links and academic institutions, particularly Anglia Ruskin, Workskills sees SE development as a vital part of the removal of barriers to the disadvantaged across Essex.
Social Enterprise is now “flavour of the month” for all political parties, even getting David Cameron and other senior Conservative on a bus with hard hats and high vis jackets on too! (recent newsww.socialenterprisemag.co.uk)
// Social Enterprise Links
Social Firms UK, aims to create employment opportunities for disabled people through the development and support of Social Firms.
http://www.socialfirms.co.uk/
Social Enterprise Coalition, the UK's national body for social enterprise.
www.socialenterprise.org.uk
Social Enterprise East of England,SEEE, is a network of social enterprises, advice and support organisations, local authorities and other groups with interests in Social Enterprise – particularly in its promotion and development. It covers six counties: Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
www.socialenterprise-east.org.uk