How can combined authorities support the social economy to fix regional economies? – a discussion with Tracy Brabin

Today (21 November) we mark Social Enterprise Day - a time to raise awareness and understanding of our global movement - with new research that shows the impact of business putting people and planet first. Unlike traditional businesses, social enterprises reinvest profits in vital missions, from bringing communities together and creating employment opportunities to tackling environmental issues and stimulating local economies. New analysis on our Social Enterprise Knowledge Centre provides regional breakdowns of our sector across the country - overall painting a vibrant picture of the many and varied social enterprises from Cornwall to Cumbria, driving positive change despite complex economic challenges. We’re proud to shine a spotlight on the great work of our movement. Read the new research

As our new government maps out its “mission-based” approach, the Cabinet Office is looking at how public procurement could support this – and as part of our work to build markets for social enterprise, we’re seizing this opportunity to show political leaders the added value unlocked when we work in partnership. Procurement is one of the government’s most powerful economic tools, with public sector bodies spending over £400bn to deliver vital public services and critical infrastructure in the last year alone. Unfortunately, the current system is failing to achieve its full potential, as evidenced by our Social Value 2032 research. With a more effective strategy, these funds could help shape markets to improve business behaviours and social outcomes. We hope this new government consultation is the start of a journey to making public sector procurement more collaborative and innovative, so that it delivers greater value – and we know social enterprise can help accelerate progress here. Our business model naturally aligns to a mission-driven approach, putting people and planet before profit. However, system change is needed to really unleash the procurement power of social enterprise suppliers. Having given insight and advice directly to government as part of the consultation, we also wanted to publicly share the highlights of our response, as we continue to push for more engagement and understanding. A key point is making legislation work better. Our research found £56bn in added value has been lost since the Social Value Act came in, so this must be strengthened alongside updates to the National Procurement Policy Statement. It’s promising that guidance on the upcoming Procurement Act expresses a specific intention to benefit social enterprises, and we’ll share our sector insight with policymakers to ensure they understand our needs and expectations. Going further, commissioners must recognise the intrinsic value of organisations in their supply chain. Rather than narrow measurement processes that relegate social value to a tick-box exercise, commissioners should consider how suppliers in their supply chain might advance wider strategic goals. Ultimately, commissioners need the responsibility and guidance to play the role of market stewards; procurement spending should be recognised as investment, with commissioners obliged to consider how such funds can be used to deliver more for the communities they serve. This should also mean actively limiting opportunities for profit in certain areas. When vulnerable individuals are dependent on specific services like social care, there should be no opportunity to make profit at the expense of investing and providing the highest quality service. The government’s new plans to prevent profiteering in children's homes are a very welcome step in the right direction – but there are concerns about whether profit-driven businesses would make voluntary changes, and questions about how mandatory legislation would work in practice. Where possible, commissioners should look to reserve more contracts for suppliers that have adopted business models where surplus funds are used to invest in services, rather than enriching shareholders. Overall, more transparency is needed across the procurement system. Commissioners need to understand what colleagues across the public sector are doing and pursue best practice in line with their own goals. Similarly, they need to understand how suppliers are using their funds, so they can get an accurate sense of the costs needed to deliver vital services. Procurement can enhance public wellbeing and deliver shared prosperity – but it must be approached in a way that prioritises collaboration and transparency, with greater appreciation of what different organisations may bring to the table. This will allow commissioners to better embed suppliers whose practices, values and interests are aligned with the people and places they serve. Ultimately, this will not only improve services and outcomes but cultivate a more inclusive and dynamic economy. If you want to share your experiences of public sector procurement, and/or get involved with our Social Value 2032 work, contact policy@socialenterprise.uk.

Bloom is returning to Liverpool in 2025, ready to bring together leaders, doers and strategists from the creative and digital sectors. This one-day, future-focused event is designed as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and strategic development, where attendees can immerse themselves in a wealth of ideas and practical insights, forge new connections, and leave with inspiration to take part in real, progressive action. Last May, Bloom made its debut in Liverpool. The event featured: 20 influential speakers sharing their expertise. 15 support organisations offering guidance. 30 exhibitors showcasing their latest innovations. The day was packed with panel discussions, engaging talks, and one-on-one advice sessions, all geared towards ensuring digital and creative businesses are equipped for the future. Attendees not only benefited from expert insights but also enjoyed great food, live music, and ample opportunities to connect and grow their networks. In 2025, Bloom 2025 is thinking bigger. The event will have a focus on the theme of collaboration and will explore how we can make alliances and work together for the greater success of the creative and digital sectors.  Bloom 2025 will bring together businesses across‘ the north’ to connect and explore how those working in the creative and digital industries contribute to and drive the creative economy.  Following on from the success of Bloom 2024, there will be topics on how business leaders can future-proof their businesses and adapt to challenges, advice on how to cultivate the next generation of skilled professionals and the purpose of place; exploring the evolving nature of our cities and how creativity contributes to these shifts.  All of these topics will be weaved by the leading theme of Bloom 2025; collaboration. Bloom is an event for: Creatives, digital leaders, doers, and strategists looking to not only stay ahead of the curve, but help guide where the sectors are going.  Team members seeking expertise to future-proof their businesses. Networkers and collaborators ready to engage, connect, and build lasting partnerships. Bloom expands on your toolkit to ensure your business has the support it needs at every stage—whether launching, scaling, or building resilience. Bloom is a space to learn, share, and act, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas are planted, nurtured, and set to grow.  Mark your calendars and buy your tickets now on Eventbrite before the early bird discount comes to an end: https://Bloom2025.eventbrite.co.uk. /bluːm/ to grow or develop successfully