Thought Leadership

NHS messages prompting gym-goers to look out for potential signs of cancer will appear in the changing rooms of hundreds of Better leisure centres this summer. Stickers reminding people to check themselves regularly are set to feature on mirrors in more than 240 leisure centres run by Better, the UK's largest leisure charitable social enterprise. The eye-catching stickers will feature the message ‘Check you out’ and ‘Know what’s normal for you’ before reminding people that if something in their body doesn’t feel right, to contact their GP practice. The scheme is the latest push by the NHS to find cancers at an earlier stage, with Better joining several other partners, such as supermarkets and washroom hygiene specialists, to highlight cancer messages to the public in relevant everyday situations. The new initiative comes as a survey of more than 2,000 people by Better found that only 55% of respondents check their bodies for physical changes regularly (at least once a month), and one in ten (12%) don’t check at all. Professor Peter Johnson, National Clinical Director for Cancer at NHS England, said: “Finding cancer early is key to successful treatment and survival, and this means that we need people who have new symptoms to come forward as soon as they spot them. This is why it’s vital that people are aware of their bodies, take notice of any change from what is normal for them, and get it checked out immediately. “The partnership with Better helps us to reach more people and remind them to check themselves at a time and a place that works for them. It’s a simple thing that anyone can do, but it really can save your life.” Joe Rham, Customer and Communities Director for GLL, the not-for-profit charitable social enterprise that runs Better leisure centres, said: “Our aim is to improve health and wellbeing in local communities and we’re delighted to be partnering with NHS England in this vital campaign. “The survey we conducted clearly indicates a need to raise awareness of potential signs of cancer and the mirror stickers will hopefully act as a timely reminder to our customers to check themselves regularly.” NHS staff are working hard to see and treat more people with cancer than ever before, with over 50,000 patients starting cancer treatment in June – more than nine in ten within one month – and over a quarter of a million people referred for urgent cancer checks. The NHS also met the 28-day faster diagnosis standard for the second month in a row in June with more than three quarters of patients (76.3%) – almost 200,000 people – receiving the all-clear or a definitive diagnosis within four weeks.   Lending her support to the scheme, Demi Jones, ex-Love Island reality TV stars, said: “I was just 22 years old when I received my thyroid cancer diagnosis after I found a lump on my neck. I contacted my GP practice straight away to get it checked out and I was quickly referred for further testing that led to treatment by the incredible NHS team in Portsmouth. I’m now living life cancer free and would urge anyone who notices an unusual change not to delay and speak to their GP as they are there to help. It really could save their life, as it did mine.” The survey by Better also found that 59% of respondents are aware of the symptoms of breast cancer – the highest awareness across the UK’s most common cancers. That is followed by skin (50%) and bowel (47%). Worryingly, one in five (20%) said they are not aware of any potential cancer signs - particularly among the younger age groups. 33% of those aged 18-34 said they were not aware of any symptoms, compared to 16% of those aged 35 or over. Of those surveyed, 68% of females and 56% of males said they would recognise a lump or swelling in a part of their body as a possible early sign of cancer and would seek medical advice. Rhiannon Morgan, 34-year old regional health manager for Better in London and Surrey, was diagnosed with breast cancer after finding a lump during a hiking holiday in Canada in 2019. She said: “When I found the lump, I was alarmed but I had no other symptoms and felt perfectly well so I wondered if it was just where my rucksack had rubbed against the skin.”  “Eight weeks later, test results showed that the lump was cancerous, so I needed chemotherapy and underwent a mastectomy during lockdown. Now I’m living cancer free and I would advise other people to know what’s normal for your own body and get yourself checked if something doesn’t seem right.” David Bateson, 49 from Ampthill, Bedfordshire, was diagnosed with melanoma after going to his GP about a bleeding spot on his scalp. He’d noticed the spot wasn’t healing and his wife, a nurse, encouraged him to get it checked. After being referred to a specialist for a biopsy, David was told it was cancerous and within months had surgery to remove it. Despite the cancer returning the following year, immunotherapy has meant that he is now cancer free. David said: “I am living proof that early diagnosis is so important. Although I never dreamt that this spot on my head would end up being skin cancer, it turned out to be one of the most aggressive types. I dread to think what would have happened if I’d not gone to my doctor when I did. “I think these stickers are a great idea. I play football at my local leisure centre, and – when you’re in the changing room or showering – it’s the perfect place to think about changes in your body, so it’s the ideal setting to remind people to be aware.” About Better Better is the consumer facing brand for GLL.  Established in 1993, GLL is the largest UK-based charitable social enterprise delivering leisure, health and community services.  Operating under the Better brand, it manages 250 public sport and leisure centres, 113 libraries and 10 children’s centres in partnership with 50 local councils, public agencies and sporting organisations. www.better.org.uk

Your Voice Counts (YVC) is a charity based in Tyne & Wear dedicated to supporting individuals with learning disabilities, those facing mental health challenges, people with dementia, and individuals assessed as lacking the capacity to make their own decisions. Through its advocacy and support services, YVC plays a crucial role in enhancing the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of the community. Government Contracts and Impact During and after completing the DCMS funded Contract Readiness programme run by The School for Social Entrepreneurs in partnership with Social Enterprise UK and Voice 4 Change England, a course aimed at enhancing contract readiness for the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector, YVC applied for three government contracts. Despite not winning two of these contracts, the organisation was notably close, finishing as the second-highest bidder for one. Success came with the third and most recent tender, which was pivotal for YVC. This contract allowed YVC to retain its Newcastle Advocacy service, ensuring continued support for those in need. This win not only secured the organisation’s operations but also strengthened its capacity to serve the community effectively. Challenges in the Contracting Process The journey through the contracting process was fraught with challenges. YVC faced significant strain due to multiple contracts landing simultaneously, stretching their limited capacity. Staff worked extra hours, including evenings and weekends, to manage the workload. Bidding for contracts in a new Local Authority area, where YVC lacked established relationships and a local track record, further complicated the process. The absence of local references and connections made it challenging to strengthen their bid and compete effectively. The Contract Readiness "Wins" Programme The Contract Readiness "Wins" Programme proved to be transformative for YVC. It enabled the identification of effective contract win strategies, which informed the organisation’s new funding strategy and growth plan. The programme deepened YVC’s understanding of social value in the tendering process and equipped the team with essential skills. One of the practical outcomes was the development of a Bid Library. “I was able to increase my understanding of social value in the tendering process and the programme equipped me with skills that I am now putting into practice to help prepare for future tenders” says Alex. Overcoming Challenges Through the Programme The programme provided a platform for YVC to learn from other organisations and social entrepreneurs about their challenges and successes. “Learning from the programme helped me to apply a much more critical approach to our tender content – in particular, ensuring that we consistently articulate the added value that our organisation brings above and beyond contract specifications.” Peer learning was instrumental in applying a more critical approach to their tender content. These insights have been pivotal in refining their bids and increasing their competitiveness in the tendering process. Organisational Growth and Achievements Since starting the programme, YVC has experienced significant growth and success. “Our key successes since starting the programme have been securing a 5-year grant worth £400,000, providing financial stability and enabling long-term planning. We have won a £337,000 per year contract for three years with the Newcastle Local Authority, ensuring sustained support for their advocacy services and we have entered into partnerships with two other organisations to deliver a new Local Authority contract, expanding their reach and impact.” Conclusion The Contract Readiness Wins Programme has been a cornerstone in YVC’s recent achievements. It has not only helped the organisation secure vital contracts and funding but also equipped them with the knowledge and strategies needed for sustainable growth. Through perseverance and strategic development, Your Voice Counts continues to make a profound difference in the lives of those it serves. yvc.org.uk

The shortlist has been announced for the UK Social Enterprise Awards – the country’s biggest celebration of social enterprises, which recognises the best in the sector across 15 categories. The ceremony, organised by Social Enterprise UK, will take place at the iconic Roundhouse in London on the evening of 4 December. Commenting on this year’s shortlist, Peter Holbrook Chief Executive of Social Enterprise UK said: “Our Awards are the ultimate showcase of social enterprise impact and excellence – so those who made the shortlist represent the future of business, and a beacon of hope in turbulent times. “‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​Despite economic challenges, these trailblazers are not only making profit but using it for the good of people and planet. ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​Businesses big and small have a vital role to play in solving the problems we face as a society, and the social enterprises celebrated at our Awards give us all inspiration and motivation to do business better.” ‌ To get your tickets to the Awards click here. The Shortlist UK Social Enterprise of the Year Sponsored by Keegan & Pennykid The overall award for a social enterprise that has a clear vision, excellence in impact, and that has demonstrated and promoted social enterprise beyond the sector. Bath Spa University Change Please Community Impact Initiative Community Shop Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust London Early Years Foundation Turning Point Waste to Wonder Worldwide The Workspace Group One to Watch Award Sponsored by PwC The One to Watch Award is for a start-up social enterprise. Key to winning this award is an ability to clearly articulate their future vision and how they are going to achieve it. Amplify Goods Arts Care Construction and Engineering Opportunities (CEO) Courtyard Pantry Enterprise Down to Zero Ltd Esports Youth Club C.I.C Half the Story KERB+ Prove It: Social Impact Award Sponsored by Linklaters For a social enterprise that can truly demonstrate and communicate their impact with their stakeholders. Breadwinners Goldfinger Hey Girls CIC Moneyline Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise CIC The Skill Mill Limited Ravine Market Garden (The Advantage Foundation) 'Buy Social' Market Builder Award Sponsored by Clear Voice For a social enterprise, public sector body or private sector organisation that has demonstrably made efforts within its own organisation and remit to create more opportunities to buy from social enterprises. Amey Co-op McLaughlin & Harvey National Highways Nationwide Building Society Nestle UK&I School for Social Entrepreneurs Social Investment Deal of the Year Sponsored by Better Society Capital For an organisation that has been part of a great investment deal in the last 12 months that has helped the social enterprise to grow or the movement as a whole to develop and flourish. Barking & Dagenham Giving/The Boathouse Barking CIC Big Issue Invest/Lightning Reach Great Western Credit Union/Fair4All Finance Impact Finance Consulting/ARK Resettlement Services British Land/Impact Hub London Ltd Arts & Culture Impact Fund/Music Venue Properties Public Services Social Enterprise of the Year Sponsored by GLL For a social enterprise for whom the majority of their income comes from the public sector and which delivers public services (for central or local government, NHS, criminal justice or other statutory body). CDS CIC Family Fund Business Services Mastercall Healthcare SH24 CIC Simon Community Scotland Social Interest Group Turning Point Consumer Facing Social Enterprise of the Year Sponsored by The Company Shop Group For a social enterprise that delivers a retail product or service to the general public. Nemi Teas Ltd   Stand4 Socks Tap Social Movement Tea People Ltd   The Dusty Knuckle Bakery Zaytoun CIC Education, Training & Jobs Social Enterprise of the Year Sponsored by BDO For a social enterprise in the education, training or employment sectors that can demonstrate excellence in vision and strategic direction, and clearly evidence their social, environmental and community impact. Change Please Cockpit Money A+E The Dusty Knuckle Bakery WYK Digital Environmental Social Enterprise of the Year Sponsored by Landmarc For a social enterprise in the green and environmental sector with a clear evidenced environmental impact. Eco Drama Ethstat Ethical CIC Finance Earth Gloucestershire House Clearances CIC Green Machine Computers Ltd REMO (CCORRN - Cambridgeshire Community Reuse and Recycling Network Ltd) The Compliance People Social Enterprise Building Diversity, Inclusion, Equity & Justice Award Sponsored by Nestlé Social justice is fundamental to the social enterprise movement. This category is open to all social enterprises who are addressing issues around diversity, inclusion and equity. Built By Us City Health Care Partnership CIC Community Renewal Trust Rom Romeha Founders and Coders Grange Pavilion Youth Forum Money A+E Nuneaton Signs Women in Banking and Finance Ltd Social Enterprise Women’s Champion of the Year Sponsored by Bunzl For a woman working in the senior leadership team of a social enterprise who represents excellence in her field of work. Elysha Paige - Bloody Good Employers            Viviene Bish-Bedeau - Construction and Engineering Opportunities (CEO)      Dee Murray - Menopause Experts Group        Nicola Pollock - MorphFit Gentle Movement Project Maggie Gordon-Walker - Mothers Uncovered (Livestock charity)             Hayley Hulme - Starts With You               Paula Jennings - Stepping Stones Jasmine Cannon-Ikurusi - The Sapphire Wellbeing and Employability Academy   Sarah Jordan - Y.O.U Underwear Ltd    International Impact Award Sponsored by Zurich Insurance Group For a social enterprise working internationally, and which are having a big impact in their field. This award is open to UK-based organisations only with existing international operations. auticon UK Finance Earth IDEMS International CIC Stand4 Socks Tea People Ltd The Burnt Chef Project CIC Community-Based Social Enterprise of the Year Sponsored by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation This award is for a social enterprise that trades for the benefit of their community, making a real local impact. Breadwinners CAIS Social Enterprises and St Giles Cymru Esports Youth Club C.I.C Homebaked Bakery Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise CIC Social Enterprise Kent Trivallis Social Enterprise Innovation of the Year Sponsored by Barclays Business Banking A new award is recognising a social enterprise that has brought something truly innovative to market in the past year. Big Issue Group Change Please Clear Voice Even Qualia Law CIC RAW St Helena Hospice Tech for Good: Technology Social Enterprise of the Year Sponsored by Mitie For a social enterprise that uses technology to achieve social impact. auticon UK Beam Green Machine Computers Ltd Hope 4 The Community CIC Pocket Power Showcase the Street WYK Digital We are pleased to be working with Cwmpas, Social Enterprise Northern Ireland and Social Enterprise Scotland to deliver the Awards. ​A‌‌‌wards Sponsors ​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

TV presenter and former model Gail Porter, who fought back from crippling bankruptcy and homelessness, speaks out on behalf of the 6 million Brits [1] living without an essential item like a washing machine or table to eat from. Gail Porter, Patron of the Fair Credit Charity which set up ethical lender and social enterprise, Fair for You says: “Six million people are living without household essentials right now, and many of those won’t have access to charity support or local council grants - nor do many want to use them. A helping hand from an ethical, not for profit lender like Fair for You can help them make their house a home. The alternative is living in deep deprivation, which I have experienced, or being burned by high-cost credit, or the exploitative tactics of illegal lenders.” New data released today [2] shows that around 9 million adults in Britain now have less than £250 in savings - making the upfront purchase of an essential appliance impossible (Fair4All Finance). The campaign aims to get more Brits to spread the cost of essential purchases with ethical lenders like Fair for You, who will only lend what people can afford, and provide customers with control over repayments.  Gail Porter is also calling out banks for turning their backs on customers - even those who can afford to repay - because they don’t want to go to the trouble of making small loans. [3] She also feels that more retailers should be looking at their credit partners and considering whether they are offering options that are fair to hard-pressed consumers, saying: “The cost-of-living crisis has hit people hard, and I know that many people would be in serious hot water if they had to find a way to buy a new washing machine, fridge or other key appliance. I remember the horror of not being able to get a new washer when my young daughter was going to school - it wasn’t just the practical side of ensuring she wasn’t wearing dirty clothes, it was also the stress and the guilt I experienced, which put a huge pressure on my already dented self-esteem and mental health. “After what I went through, I know how hopeless things can feel when bills are piling up, but also how much of a boost it can give you - practically and mentally - when you find a helping hand. Fair for You and its retail partners are ensuring that there is a decent option out there for Brits who have nowhere to turn if they need to buy a new appliance or furniture - and we really want more companies to follow in their footsteps. We need to direct people away from illegal lenders who want to profit from misery.” Gail, a household TV and celebrity name in the 1990s, developed alopecia in 2005. The loss of her hair led to all her work drying up and coinciding with other personal issues, she went through the trauma of financial collapse and mental health issues. She has always been open about her well-documented difficulties during this period, and has become patron of the Fair Credit Charity to direct people to fair financial options. The Fair Credit Charity set up the ethical lender and social enterprise Fair for You in 2015.  Fair for You enables people who aren’t being well served by banks and other mainstream lenders to buy household items including beds, washing machines, fridges and furniture with fair and flexible repayments. A range of leading retailers partner with Fair for You including Hotpoint, Argos and Iceland. Simon Dukes, chief executive of Fair for You, says: “The latest data from Fair4All Finance shows that 20.3m people are in financially vulnerable circumstances.(4) Around half of them are not able to save each month. This means there are millions of people with no financial safety net, who may feel they have no option in a moment of financial stress but to turn to high cost credit or illegal lenders. “We’re proud of the support we do provide, and we are supporting more and more customers all the time. Gail Porter is destigmatising the issue of financial exclusion by being so honest talking about her experiences of appliance poverty and just how distressing and hopeless it can feel without the right support.” Ian Moverley, Communication Director, Hotpoint says:"We don't believe anyone should worry about being able to put their kids in clean clothes or keep their food fresh. That's why we've been a proud partner of Fair for You since it first launched. Providing an affordable way for people to buy our household appliances means we can help alleviate the financial burden so many families are under. We're delighted that Gail is encouraging more brands to join us in offering similar ethical solutions that will make such a huge difference to so many lives." Claire Donovan, head of policy, research and campaigns at the End Furniture Poverty charity comments:“Our research highlights that there are at least six million people in the UK in furniture poverty, meaning they lack access to at least one vital household item, including appliances - and that at least one million are in what we call ‘deep furniture poverty’, meaning that there are three or more vital items they don’t have. The routes out of furniture poverty are becoming increasingly harder to navigate, so we welcome all sources of support.” References https://endfurniturepoverty.org/research-campaigns/understanding-furniture-poverty/ Fair4All Finance latest segmentation of people in financially vulnerable circumstances reveals that of the 20.3 million in financially vulnerable circumstances, 44% of these (8.93m adults) have no savings at all or less than £250 in savings. According to a Fair4All Finance report, only one major bank in Great Britain offers loans under £1,000. https://fair4allfinance.org.uk/nearly-half-of-uk-adults-now-living-in-financially-vulnerable-circumstances Photo credit: Getty Images/Fair for You About Fair for You  Founded in 2015, Fair for You is an ethical lender and social enterprise, with a mission of helping financially-excluded families to buy essential household items, avoid hardship, and build their financial resilience.  A registered community interest company (CIC) and owned by the Fair Credit Charity, Fair for You is backed by leading social investors. With more than 20m Britons struggling to access mainstream credit, and more than 10m having less than £100 in savings, there are families for whom an unexpected bill, or a fridge or washing machine breaking, spells disaster. Rather than go without fresh food or clean clothes, or having to go to the sort of predatory, for-profit, high-cost lenders which don’t have their welfare in mind, Fair for You is here to support them.  Fair for You has a 4.8 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot, as well as a string of industry award wins. Since 2015, it has lent to more than 100,000 customers, and regular independent impact reports demonstrate far-reaching social benefits including better physical and mental health; improved education and wellbeing of children; and making it easier for adults to seek work or remain in employment.  Fair for You runs affordability checks on all customers and uses open banking technology to enable it to lend better and collect better from those who may get rejected for loans elsewhere, due to poor credit ratings or thin credit files. Our growing range of retail partners - including Iceland, Argos, Dunelm, Whirlpool and Chemist Direct - are helping customers who may not have had access to their products without credit from Fair for You. The best-selling items through Fair for You include freezers, washing machines and children’s beds, with the average loan standing at £350. Fair for You is backed by Social Investment Scotland, Barrow Cadbury Trust, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, The Tudor Trust, Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Carnegie Trust, FSE, The Robertson Trust, Ignite and Fair4All Finance.

Mark Cook is a partner at Social Value 2032 programme partner Anthony Collins law firm, who has 30 years’ experience of procurement with well-being at its heart. As UK Parliament reconvenes this week, change is afoot with our new Government. There is a clear determination to build the economy - drawing together themes of enabling good employment, addressing poverty and homelessness, tackling climate change, embracing new technology, reforming public services, empowering local communities and improving lives. Within that, mission-led and social business has a huge role to play. Businesses that have the advancement of good in society over profit as their main driver can make the telling difference in re-imagining and delivering better public services, especially if these are procured through an intentionally values-based public procurement process. So, how might all that fit within an approach to commissioning, procuring and managing public services? Inclusive growth in public procurement requires thought, not just action. Three things need to be joined up: There is a section headed ‘Procurement’ at the end of the document ‘Labour’s Plan to Make Work Pay’, which says: “Before any service is contracted out, public bodies must carry out a quick and proportionate public interest test, to understand whether that work could not be more effectively done in-house.” It would be good to align this public interest test with an embedded approach to social value or public value, such as that embraced by HM Treasury’s Green Book. Before contracting authorities can begin any procurement of services, they are legally required under the Social Value Act to consider “how what is proposed to be procured might improve the economic, social and environmental well-being of the relevant area – and how, in conducting the process of procurement, it might act with a view to securing that improvement”. This is primarily a public law duty on public bodies to thinkabout well-being, in the three dimensions listed, before they procure – not ask suppliers what they can do by way of added value. The new Procurement Act (coming into force at the end of October 2024) sets out the objectives that a contracting authority must have regard to – including delivering value for money, maximising public benefit, sharing information about procurement policies and decisions, and being seen to act with integrity.  There is also the requirement to consider the barriers that small and medium-sized enterprises may face to participation, and whether such barriers can be removed or reduced. More duties to think, but this time during the entire procurement and contracting process. Government guidance published last month says: “In order to achieve value for money, contracting authorities should have a comprehensive understanding of their requirements and link them to their policy priorities (which may include wider economic, social and environmental considerations where they are relevant, proportionate and non-discriminatory)”. With all these requirements to think, there is the opportunity to consider not only how communities are best served but how everyone is included in the transformation of public services. That must mean including those who would otherwise be left out – and harnessing the power of social enterprises, whose purpose is to do just that. This blog is the first of a series that will explore the opportunities presented by these areas, considering the latest guidance from government and the possibilities to reshape public expenditure. Find out more about the Social Value 2032 programme here.

Allia Impact is excited to announce the relaunch of two of its most sought-after programmes. Designed to empower and support those who have a positive impact idea the "Start" and "Grow” programmes offer amazing opportunities for individuals committed to positively impacting their communities.Both programmes are fully funded by Cambridge City Council and so are free to access. The Start Your Business Programme is tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs who are in the early stages of developing their social enterprises. This comprehensive programme equips participants with the essential knowledge, tools, and resources needed to transform their innovative ideas into viable, impactful businesses. Through expert-led workshops, practical guidance, and a supportive community, participants will gain the confidence and skills to launch and sustain their ventures. For those who have already established their social enterprises and are ready to scale their impact, the Grow Your Business Programme is the perfect next step. This programme provides in-depth support, including one-on-one coaching from industry experts, strategic advice, and the opportunity to connect with a network of like-minded individuals. Participants will receive tailored guidance to help them navigate the challenges of growth, refine their strategies, and amplify their social impact. Marina Pritchard, Programme Manager at Allia Impact, shared her enthusiasm about the relaunch: “Over the past two and a half years and overseeing 15 cohorts, I've had the privilege of meeting and working with inspirational people. The 'Start' and 'Grow' programmes are a place to be yourself, pursue your passion, and achieve your positive impact goals. We're thrilled to bring these programmes back with enhanced features to better support our entrepreneurs on their journey.” Both programmes reflect Allia Impact's commitment to promoting social innovation and entrepreneurship, providing participants with the tools and support they need to create businesses that make a real difference. With the continuation of these programmes, Allia Impact continues to lead the way in enabling social entrepreneurs to thrive and drive positive change in their communities. Applications for both programmes are now open. Whether you're just beginning your entrepreneurial journey or looking to take your idea to new heights, Allia Impact's "Start" and "Grow" programmes offer the perfect platform to help you succeed. Apply now for ‘Start Your Business’: https://bit.ly/Start-Cambs Apply now for ‘Grow Your Business’: https://bit.ly/GrowbizCambs

With the Labour Party returning to power, the issue of worker rights has emerged as a priority for government. The New Deal for Working People is the proposed flagship reform, offering a suite of policies aimed at enhancing protections and banning exploitative practices. While trade unions have been intimately involved in the development of this package, Labour has also been keen to stress the desire to work in partnership with business. Sector groups and leaders have welcomed some of the ambitions and policies announced in Labour’s election campaign - but, as the Confederation for British Industry (CBI) noted, there remain “legitimate concerns” within the business community[1]. However, our recent Social Enterprise Knowledge Centre research shows that such concerns are short-sighted, considering the impact that deteriorating working conditions have had on our economy. Since the 2008 financial crisis, wages have stagnated and living standards have plunged, largely due to employers’ growing power over workers[2]. Short-term gains from weak working rights are offset by the long-term damage poor working conditions have on the wider economy. Poor wages stifle demand and limit growth. Insecure work contracts lead to high staff turnovers, generating costs in the replacement process. Lack of investment in staff contributes to stagnating productivity and undermines the ability of businesses to invest in the future. These are not the economic conditions in which business can thrive.  Social enterprise has long recognised the inherent value of good working conditions, leading the way for wider business– as evidenced by some of our latest research findings: 8 in 10 social enterprises employers are paying the real Living Wage 77% of social enterprises are providing some form of workplace training 95% of social enterprises offer some form of flexible working arrangement[3] Far from being a burden to these businesses, many social enterprises have found investing in the quality of their employment offer enables them to retain and grow their workforce, even in the face of persistent crises. Social enterprises are demonstrating valuable business insights into how Labour should approach its New Deal for Working People. Our latest Social Enterprise Advisory Panel report suggests that social enterprises are broadly supportive of Labour’s proposals, but also some areas that deserve careful attention: Public sector contracts – Many social enterprises provide critical public services and rely on public sector contracts. It is imperative that these are properly funded, so that social enterprises and other businesses can pay staff fair wages and maintain decent working conditions. Flexibility where appropriate – While social enterprises are vocal critics of exploitative contracts, in some cases, flexible contracts can be mutually beneficial to both the business and their employees. The focus should be on ensuring that such contracts are available, providing workers are happy with terms, and with enhanced protections to provide additional security. New ownership models – From co-operatives to employee-owned firms, there are diverse ownership models that give workers a direct stake in their business. We need more support to encourage the establishment and growth of businesses where workers lead from the front. Good jobs are the foundation of a prosperous economy, and while the details will need to be carefully considered, social enterprises continue to help deliver better working conditions. Social enterprises show that business should not fear the New Deal for Working People but embrace protections that will raise living standards, improve incomes, boost productivity and create an economy where businesses and workers can thrive. You can download our latest Social Enterprise Advisory Panel report using the link below: [1] https://www.cbi.org.uk/articles/is-your-business-budget-ready/ [2]https://cep.lse.ac.uk/pubs/download/ea066.pdf?_gl=1*lmgqij*_gcl_au*MTc1ODIxMTQyNi4xNzIyNTExNjky*_ga*MTc4MDcyNjUzLjE3MjI1MTE2OTI.*_ga_LWTEVFESYX*MTcyNDE0ODk3Ni4xLjAuMTcyNDE0ODk4MC41Ni4wLjA. [3] https://www.socialenterprise.org.uk/app/uploads/2024/07/Good-Work-Working-conditions-in-social-enterprise-July-24.pdf

City Health Care Partnership’s (CHCP) annual patient and colleague surveys show a clear link between happy staff and happy patients. 76% of colleagues completed the survey on what it’s like to work at CHCP, a local NHS organisation providing community health and care services in Hull, the East Riding and Merseyside. 91% said they would recommend CHCP to friends and family who needed care or treatment. This is reflected in the annual patient survey, which asked 2,422 people about the service they’d received from CHCP last year. 93% said they were satisfied with their overall experience but even more striking was the 98% of patients who said they were treated with care and respect by their health professional; 96% said they were happy with the amount of time their clinician spent with them. Andrew Burnell, group chief executive at CHCP, says these results show that when people feel valued and appreciated, they pass this on to their patients: “As a registered nurse myself, I know what it’s like to work in our services and I know that feeling that you’re doing the best you can for your patients is crucial to a positive experience of work. “The health and wellbeing of all our colleagues is vitally important; in the survey they mention the positive work culture, job satisfaction and the feeling of being valued as reasons for 81% of them recommending CHCP as a place to work. “And our patients reap the benefits of this. They talk about the friendliness, professionalism and efficiency of the people looking after them and that our staff are caring and supportive. “But there is always room for improvement and we are looking at the areas where we need to do better for colleagues and patients. We are working on reducing waiting times and making it easier to get an appointment. “One of our patients said, ‘You can’t improve on excellent’ but I want us to try! We are delighted with these results, but we can always do better.”