Member updates

Birmingham-based award-winning social entrepreneur and leading mental health counsellor, Martin Hogg, founder of Citizen Coaching CIC, launches a new book series focused on accessible strategies to improve mental health for all.  As Citizen Coaching CIC approaches its 20th anniversary, Martin Hogg has instigated a step-change in the highly successful and sustainable social enterprise, Citizen Coaching CIC.  Citizen Coach CIC operational and day-to-day leadership is now being headed by Carla Lees as the new Managing Director. Meanwhile, Martin continues to drive innovation and develop new products and offers to support positive social and behavioural change for those seeking support strategies to tackle mental health challenges.  His first book series launches March 2025 with three new books capturing his twenty years of specialist counselling experience, and translated into readable, bite-size, practical mental health strategies delivered in his unique and engaging style.  Highly qualified, yes.  Lived experience, yes.  Proven results, yes.  Martin says, “Back in 2005 the waiting times for counselling support were long. I believed that not everyone needed to see a psychologist or doctor and that some small practical, non-jargony, and motivational interventions in non-clinical surroundings could be effective for many people.”  “In 2008, I was asked how I funded the work I was doing. I described the Citizen Coaching CIC model as a modern-day Robin Hood business model, delivering counselling services for those with the ability to pay subsidies to support those who couldn’t afford to pay but were in most need of support. Apparently, that was a social enterprise business model, and that legal structure could help me help more people and secure the service for the future.”  Today, Citizen Coaching CIC works in a third-sector consortium with several other local counselling providers, and together they deliver half of the mental health sessions to the people of Birmingham, Europe’s biggest local authority.  Now, with Martin’s creative approach and drive to support more people to live better lives, he has put pen to paper and written three books as the first release in a series of positive mental health personal development paperbacks.  Just launched on Amazon, ‘My Mental Well-Being Coach Series’ presents My Anxiety Coach, My Relationship Coach and My Anger Coach – not only personal development books but counsellor reference books and additional downloadable tailored management plans to support the journey to well-being.  Martin says, “The hardest thing is that, as a counsellor, you can't help everyone immediately. As counsellors, we hate waiting lists but the fact is there is way more demand than supply. We must use all the tools and technology we have to ensure people get the best possible service.”  “With the continuing demand for mental health support, I want to share what I know with others so it can help them with their issues or equip them with the tools to help others. I like to keep things simple, easily understandable and memorable. It’s the practical application that will mean success or failure.”  “As a social entrepreneur, I’m always looking to innovate and see Citizen Coaching CIC leading the way in creating more quality and accessible mental health resources, courses, online products, books and audiobooks.” citizencoaching.com

68 GLL pools taking part from Cornwall to Cumbria, Belfast to Basingstoke. Youngest challenger is just 8 years old The UK's foremost leisure charitable social enterprise GLL will host 1054 fundraising challenges in 68 of its managed pools for Swimathon 2025. The world's biggest fundraising swim happening over the weekend of 28-30 March sees fundraisers' proceeds going to Cancer Research UK, end of life charity Marie Curie and Swimathon Foundation. Participants can choose to swim 400m or Triple 5k and they can swim as individuals or part of a team. GLL has been supporting Swimathon over the years in its 'Better' branded pools. Customers preparing for Swimathon 2025, were invited to a special training tips webinar hosted by Olympic Gold Medallist swimming legend Duncan Goodhew - with inspiring words boosting the number of  take-ups even further. GLL is the largest provider of public swimming pools in the UK (140 pools and 9 lidos) including the iconic Manchester Aquatic Centre, West Reservoir and London Fields Lido - and the biggest provider of swimming lessons - teaching 200,000 people a week, including adult swimmers. GLL's Head of Sport and Aquatics Andrew Clark said: "The best of luck to our fundraisers - with over 1000 taking part, Swimathon 2025 promises to be one of the biggest challenges of its kind we've hosted. "Not only are Cancer Research UK, end of life charity Marie Curie and Swimathon Foundation going to get a boost out of this - it's also offering many the chance to start a lifetime fitness habit." Swimmers young and old have been flocking to GLL's 'Better' pools to train for their individual and team challenges. Among them are mother-and-son fundraisers from Peckham, Leo Garnett (8) and Anna Garcia who train at Charlton Lido in Greenwich.  Anna comments: "Leo's been swimming since he was 3 months old.  "We used to live in Gibraltar and everyone had a pool, I was so scared of him not knowing how to swim. He swims in the school squad and also trains with Dulwich Dolphins." "I swim to challenge myself firstly but realised I could also raise money for Cancer Research - the disease has affected family friends. "We are stepping up and will both do 5km this year  - Swimathon believe Leo is the youngest swimmer attempting this distance." Among GLL's pools that are hosting the largest number of fundraising swims are: London Fields Lido - 118 Charlton Lido - 122 Britannia Leisure Centre - 50 Manchester Aquatic Centre  - 40  Swimathon Foundation is a registered charity working with charitable, facility, national operators and governing body partners to promote the health, wellbeing and life skills that swimming can provide. It also owns the Marathon Swims and other Swimathon campaigns which offers the public the opportunity to swim and fundraise for charity. gll.org

After 20 years, at the end of March 2025, Richard Beard will be handing over the reins as Chief Executive of JERICHO, a leading Birmingham charity and family of seven sustainable social enterprises.  JERICHO is an award-winning charity that provides supported work opportunities for people facing extreme challenges in getting a job. The organisation primarily supports marginalised young people and survivors of modern slavery. What is truly different about the JERICHO model is the combination of vital support and activities which are offered alongside supported work placements. The person-centred JERICHO approach helps reduce isolation, support recovery, promote inclusion and ultimately supports people to become more employable and transform their lives.  JERICHO’s people are the key to success, and Richard learnt from the ground up. After a career in engineering, he joined the JERICHO staff team in October 2004 to lead a project training people with lived experience of substance misuse, homelessness or offending in construction skills. In 2005, he was appointed Deputy CEO and then taking on the role of Chief Executive in 2006.  His aspiration was to scale and grow the charity, further develop the social impact and to increase the proportion of income that came from trading rather than grants.  In Richard’s first year, JERICHO trading income was less than 10% of £420,000 annual income. As Richard steps away from JERICHO, group income is above £4 million with 80% trading income…. So, mission accomplished!  Incoming Chief Executive, Katie Webb, says, “The work to create a fairer society doesn’t stop. There is still so much to do to help level the playing field and providing supported work placements for people who need them most must continue so we can help change lives and improve life chances. My aspiration for my term leading JERICHO is to build on Richard’s amazing legacy, continue innovating and to keep trying to build a fairer society.”  “We are already developing new employability-focused projects and programmes that will help us support more people with barriers to entering the workforce. Going forwards, as well as focusing on training and supporting people to progress to roles in foundational sectors, we would love to create new supported work opportunities that equip and upskill people for the ‘jobs of tomorrow’ as well enable routes into mainstream work in key areas where we are already seeing labour shortages such as health and social care, childcare and manufacturing.”  Richard’s contribution to the West Midlands regional social economy is not to be underestimated. In the November Social Economy Awards 2025, supported by West Midlands Combined Authority,  he was shortlisted for Overall Contribution to the Social Economy (Individual) category.  Under Richard’s stewardship, JERICHO employment outcomes currently range from 84% to 100% annually for people progressing into employment, education or other positive outcomes, and has generated £2million of added social value in 2023/24.   Richard Beard says, “I’m truly delighted to be handing the Chief Executive baton onto an incredibly talented and capable successor who I’m confident will lead JERICHO to the next level.”  “What am I proud of, aside from all those people who have been involved with JERICHO over the last 20 years, is that JERICHO is now known as leaders in the fields of supported employment and modern slavery.”   Colin Marsh, Chair of Trustees, says, “Huge thanks to Richard for his many years of excellent service to JERICHO. I am looking forward to working with Katie Webb in the months ahead.”  jericho.org.uk

Connection Crew, the UK’s only social enterprise in the crewing industry, published their 2024 Impact Report on 20th February 2025, reflecting on a record-breaking year of social and environmental impact, and what that really means. The report, released on the UN Day of Social Justice, highlights the dual challenges of rising homelessness and the urgent need for a just transition; one that reduces carbon emissions without leaving people behind. In 2024, Connection Crew generated 34,384 hours of direct social impact — their biggest year yet. 30.6% of crew who joined them were previously affected by homelessness; 30.2% of their total crew were previously affected by homelessness. But look deeper at the numbers, and you see they're indicative of a harsh reality: more people than ever are at risk of, or directly experiencing, homelessness. According to Shelter, 1 in 160 people were homeless on any one night in 2024, a 14% increase on 182 in 2023. Connection Crew's Impact Crew includes individuals who:  have direct lived experience of homelessness  are at risk of homelessness are long-term unemployed have left institutions such as care, prison, or the military Through paid work, training, and mentoring, they’re helping peoples' journey to rebuild their lives. In 2024, they supported 15 people referred by partners through their Academy and into Living Wage Work, and a further 37 people who applied to them directly. That’s progress. But they accept that they need to go further and push for better working conditions in the gig economy. That means: helping crew access more stable hours advocating for fairer working conditions across the events industry finding new ways to make long-term social impact It's not going to be easy. There are obstacles in their way and the industry relies on last-minute bookings, with freelancing being the norm. Connection Crew's focus is environmental as well as social; to look after people, they need to look after the planet. They hold themselves accountable for their environmental footprint. In 2024, 98.2% of their clients opted into their Carbon Levy, supporting carbon removal projects and behaviour change initiatives within their crew. “A just transition means fairness at every level,” said Warren Rogers, Director at Connection Crew. “Reducing carbon emissions and tackling homelessness must go hand in hand. Our 2024 Impact Report is about being honest about our progress, as well as where we need to do better.” Read the full 2024 Impact Report connectioncrew.co.uk

The UK’s largest charitable social enterprise leisure provider, GLL, will add Westminster Boating Base to its ever-growing list of water facilities when it takes on its management and operations on behalf of the Westminster Boating Base charity from 1 March 2025, following an agreement struck with the charity’s trustees.   GLL operates facilities under its 'Better' brand. The new arrangements will ensure the Pimlico-based charity will continue to be able to meet its charitable objectives to help educate and develop young people and improve lives for many years to come. It will also ensure the Base retains its unique identity and role in the community. Westminster Boating Base offers unrivalled safe and supervised access to the water for local school children who can use its pontoon to get out on the River Thames in kayaks and sailing dinghies. There will be no immediate change to the programme in 2025 under GLL’s expert management. The charitable social enterprise already operates successful water-based facilities in Lee Valley, Hackney, Welwyn Hatfield, Bedford, Manchester, Wales and Cumbria. GLL’s Partnership Manager Katie Foulger said: "We are delighted to add Westminster Boating Base to our ever-growing list of open water facilities - which include an Olympic Canoe Slalom course, Cumbrian and Welsh lakes, a reservoir in Hackney – as well as six lidos.   "Children learn valuable life skills, grow in confidence and thrive through active play and sport.  With the support of the sailing and kayaking experts here, all are assured of the best experience in the capital." "Taking the Base into our GLL family will secure its future for years to come for local children and schools as well as grant access to our Foundations, expertise and 34 years of industry-leading experience – all backed by the strong social values that our brands stand for." Nestled on the banks of the River Thames, Westminster Boating Base also boasts one of London’s most distinctive event venues, offering unparalleled riverside views from its elegant wrap-around balcony.  Already a sought-after destination for weddings, private parties and community events, the venue is now poised for an exciting new chapter under the management of GLL. With a strategic focus on expanding its events programme, Westminster Boating Base will further cement its reputation as a central premium event space while generating essential revenue to support its charitable and youth development initiatives.  GLL’s Head of National Events, Daniel Le Grange commented:  “Westminster Boating Base is an exceptional venue, combining breathtaking Thames views with a versatile and stylish setting. "We are committed to delivering high-end, premium events from conferences to corporate functions to exclusive private parties. "Every event hosted here not only benefits from an extraordinary backdrop but also plays a direct role in supporting the Base’s invaluable community and youth programmes.”  Westminster Boating Base's bookings and facility information are made available via the the website and the better_uk app. Nigel Berman, Chair of Trustees at Westminster Boating Base charity said: “This new partnership with GLL ensures our charitable objectives can be delivered while we retain our unique identity and role in the community. “We look forward to working with GLL to improve outcomes for young people and put the Base on a sustainable financial footing going forward.” GLL will continue the strong relationship built up with clubs and volunteers at the Base. GLL's water-based facilities: Westminster Boating Base, Pimlico Debdale Outdoor Centre, Manchester Lee Valley White Water Centre, Waltham Cross Blue Peris Outdoor Centre, Gwynedd Ghyll Head Activity Centre, Cumbria West Reservoir Centre, Hackney Jesus Green Lido, Cambridge London Fields Lido, Hackney Charlton Lido, Greenwich Abbey Meadows Lido, Oxfordshire Finchley Lido, Barnet Hillingdon Lido and Leisure Centre, Uxbridge better.org.uk

The Living Pension is a new Living Wage Foundation accreditation for employers who want to help workers boost their pension pots. Clean for Good is an award-winning ethical cleaning company and has become the first cleaning company in the UK to become a Living Pension Employer. Clean for Good has recently accredited as a Living Pension Employer. As an early adopter of the Living Pension, their commitment will see all of their employees offered regular pension savings equal to 12% of their wages, including a generous 8% employer contribution. This will ensure that their workers are more likely to retire with a ‘living pension’. Clean for Good is a pioneering company setting new standards in the UK cleaning sector. It was one of the first cleaning companies in the UK to become a fully accredited Living Wage Employer and a B-Corp, It was the first to adopt the Fair Tax Mark. Today it is the first UK cleaning company to become a Living Pension Employer. Clean for Good is a different kind of cleaning company, established as a social business to provide a fairer deal for cleaners and to drive change in a sector that is infamous for low pay and poor conditions. The Living Pension accreditation, awarded by the Living Wage Foundation, is a voluntary savings target for employers who want to help workers, especially those on low pay, build up a pension pot that will provide enough income to meet basic everyday needs in retirement. It launched in March 2023. A Living Pension Employer must meet a pension savings target of 12% of a full time Living Wage worker’s salary, including a minimum 7% employer contribution. Clean for Good is providing an 8% employer contribution, asking employees to provide just 4%, delivering a dignified pension at a low cost to employees. The scheme is voluntary for employees, who can opt in if they wish to benefit. The Living Pension builds on auto-enrolment, which requires a minimum 8% pension savings, with employers contributing at least 3% and workers paying the remaining 5%. (The Living Pension savings target can also be met as a cash amount of £2,950 a year, to which the employer must contribute at least £1,720). The rise in Employer National Insurance contributions from April 2025 has undoubtedly increased the costs for business, especially for a ‘people-business’ like Clean for Good. Yet even in these challenging times, Clean for Good believes that continuing to invest in its people, through initiatives like the Living Pension, is the best way to improve its services to customers. Clean for Good pays the Living Wage, offers occupational Sick Pay and now a Living Pension because it believes that what is good for workers can be good for business. Charlie Walker, Clean for Good’s Managing Director said: “We want to provide our cleaners with a living wage both at work and into retirement. We believe cleaning, in and of itself, is a dignified job and career. So, if you choose to work with Clean for Good we want to honour that, to invest in you, and pay a fair wage both now and after you retire. This is the right thing to do” Katherine Chapman, Director of the Living Wage Foundation, said: “We are delighted that Clean for Good has signed up as a Living Pension employer, providing stability and security for their workers now and in the future. Over the last ten years the Living Wage campaign has grown in strength and numbers. Now paid by over 15,000 employers, it delivers essential pay rises to 460,000 workers every year. The Living Pension builds on this by encouraging employers like Clean for Good to do more to help their workers build a pension pot that meets basic everyday needs in retirement.” Christine Ellis, a cleaner employed at Clean for Good said: “I feel strongly that the Living Pension is a great way to build on my savings funds for retirement alongside the Living Wage standard scheme that has been put into great effect. With the contributions from my employer and me as the employee I could reach my target to live within an acceptable standard when retired." cleanforgood.co.uk

Low Carbon Hub has re-opened its Community Energy Fund, giving you the chance to invest in local, renewable energy projects that benefit both the planet and your pocket. Since November 2024, over £500,000 has already been raised but our target is £800,000 by the end of March 2025, which will allow us to make an even bigger impact. Your investment will support: More community-owned renewable energy projects. Cut carbon emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Growth of funding that supports local communities. Join nearly 2,000 investor members, earn a target return of up to 5%, all while helping to speed up the transition to a cleaner, greener energy system. Find out more and invest in the Community Energy Fund: lowcarbonhub.org/invest Capital at risk; returns not guaranteed. About Low Carbon Hub Low Carbon Hub is an award-winning social enterprise that’s out to prove we can meet our energy needs in a way that’s good for people and good for the planet. We develop community-owned renewable energy projects across Oxfordshire, help homes and businesses reduce their energy demand, and run innovative energy trials to help accelerate the transition to a net zero energy system. 100% of project surplus is reinvested into further carbon-cutting initiatives. Last year we hit a key milestone of reinvesting £1 million of their project surplus into community benefit. Backed by over £10 million in investment, they manage 55 renewable energy projects including: Rooftop solar on schools and businesses The largest community-owned ground mount solar park The largest community-owned hydro at Sandford. Find out more about their work: lowcarbonhub.org

Zaytoun, the pioneering social enterprise supporting the resilience of Palestinian communities through fair trade, is proud to welcome Mike Gidney, outgoing CEO of the Fairtrade Foundation, to its Board of Directors. Mike Gidney brings over a decade of leadership at the helm of the Fairtrade Foundation, where he championed the cause of justice and empowerment for small-scale producers facing very different challenges all over the world. His commitment to building equitable supply chains aligns seamlessly with Zaytoun’s mission to connect Palestinian farmers and producers with international markets. “Zaytoun is the very best of Fairtrade – a great range products, all wonderful quality, which enable farming communities to withstand the enormous challenges they face, and to plan for a better future”, said Mike Gidney. “I’m honoured to join Zaytoun’s Board at such a significant moment in its history. For 20 years, Zaytoun has demonstrated the transformative power of fair trade, in supporting Palestinian small-scale producers. I look forward to contributing to its continued growth and impact.” “We’re thrilled to welcome Mike to our Board at this pivotal moment in Zaytoun’s journey,” said Manal Ramadan White, Managing Director of Zaytoun. “His leadership at the Fairtrade Foundation has been truly transformative, advancing trade justice and ensuring the Fairtrade mark remains a symbol of integrity and impact. His expertise in fair trade and global advocacy will be invaluable as we continue to champion Palestinian producers and navigate an increasingly challenging landscape.” Mike Gidney’s appointment comes as Zaytoun celebrates its 20th anniversary – his vast experience and visionary leadership will support Zaytoun’s efforts to grow its reach and expand market opportunities for Palestinian products in the UK and Ireland. By creating and growing a market for Palestinian products here in the UK and Ireland, Zaytoun is helping ensure a reliable and fair income stream for farmers and producers in the West Bank. As farming and food production is one of the few sources of income left to Palestinians, cultivating and selling their products is more vital than ever, both to ensure the resilience of farming communities and to help prevent confiscation of land that has been in families for centuries. Supporting Palestinians by buying their products is also an act of solidarity which is felt deeply in the West Bank.