Social Enterprise Updates
National & Local Authority Links
Argyll & Bute Council
A&B Council publish minutes of all committee meetings as a matter of public record.
To see a list of ALL committees - click here
Business Continuity Committee - click here
Bute & Cowal Area Committee - click here
Bute & Cowal Community Planning Group - click here
Helensburgh & Lomond Area Committee - click here
Helensburgh & Lomond Community Planning Group - click here
Mid-Argyll, Kintyre & The Islands Area Committee - click here
Mid-Argyll, Kintyre & The Islands Community Planning Group - click here
Oban, Lorn & The Isles Area Committee - click here
Oban, Lorn & The Isles Community Planning Group - click here
Policy & Resource Committee - click here
A&B Council publish minutes of all committee meetings as a matter of public record.
To see a list of ALL committees - click here
Business Continuity Committee - click here
Bute & Cowal Area Committee - click here
Bute & Cowal Community Planning Group - click here
Helensburgh & Lomond Area Committee - click here
Helensburgh & Lomond Community Planning Group - click here
Mid-Argyll, Kintyre & The Islands Area Committee - click here
Mid-Argyll, Kintyre & The Islands Community Planning Group - click here
Oban, Lorn & The Isles Area Committee - click here
Oban, Lorn & The Isles Community Planning Group - click here
Policy & Resource Committee - click here
August 2020
Healthier, greener town centres
Published: 01 Jul 2020 11:07 on Scottish Government Website
Part of: Building, planning and design, Coronavirus in Scotland, Business, industry and innovation, Economy
Optimising town centres for the aftermath of COVID-19.
Diverse views from urban, town, rural and island communities must be heard if town centres are to be revitalised and renewed in the wake of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, according to Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell.
Experts in town planning, public health, transport, and business will take on board views of local communities to build on the progress of the Scottish Government’s 2013 Town Centre Action Plan.
Professor Leigh Sparks of the University of Stirling will chair the expert group alongside members from COSLA, the Royal Town Planning Institute, South of Scotland Enterprise, the Carnegie Trust, the Federation of Small Businesses, Public Health Scotland, Sustrans, Inclusion Scotland and the Scottish Government.
Ms Campbell said:
“Town centres are crucial to our economic recovery and renewal as we emerge from lockdown and it’s important we do all we can to support them. COVID-19 has changed the way we all live, work and shop, and we must develop safe spaces that meet the diverse economic, social and environmental needs of city, country, village and island populations.
“By nurturing connections between local producers and retailers and their communities we enhance the wellbeing of our communities.
“Our town centre-first approach has been held up as an example throughout the UK and globally. Now we have the opportunity to develop healthier, vibrant, and greener town centres that support communities to thrive.”
Professor Sparks said:
“Our town centres need to be successful places which are socially and economically inclusive.
“The National Review of Town Centres in 2013 and the Town Centre Action Plan which followed have provided a pathway for towns in recent years.
“COVID-19 provides a challenge to our towns and town centres, but also an opportunity to rethink and re-energise our efforts to make towns fit for all in Scotland.
“I am delighted therefore to have been asked to lead this new group at this critical and important time.”
Background
The Scottish Government provided £50 million to local authorities through the capital Town Centre Fund, announced 7 March 2019, to support progress under the Town Centre Action Plan.
Professor Sparks is Deputy Principal and Professor of Retail Studies at the Institute for Retail Studies, University of Stirling. He played a key role in the development of the 2013 plan.
A Towns and Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) Resilience & Recovery Fund of up to £2 million is being provided from the Supporting Communities Fund to build on previous funding of £1 million allocated to BIDS in March.
A survey accompanies this statement. Click the button below to access the survey.
Published: 01 Jul 2020 11:07 on Scottish Government Website
Part of: Building, planning and design, Coronavirus in Scotland, Business, industry and innovation, Economy
Optimising town centres for the aftermath of COVID-19.
Diverse views from urban, town, rural and island communities must be heard if town centres are to be revitalised and renewed in the wake of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, according to Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell.
Experts in town planning, public health, transport, and business will take on board views of local communities to build on the progress of the Scottish Government’s 2013 Town Centre Action Plan.
Professor Leigh Sparks of the University of Stirling will chair the expert group alongside members from COSLA, the Royal Town Planning Institute, South of Scotland Enterprise, the Carnegie Trust, the Federation of Small Businesses, Public Health Scotland, Sustrans, Inclusion Scotland and the Scottish Government.
Ms Campbell said:
“Town centres are crucial to our economic recovery and renewal as we emerge from lockdown and it’s important we do all we can to support them. COVID-19 has changed the way we all live, work and shop, and we must develop safe spaces that meet the diverse economic, social and environmental needs of city, country, village and island populations.
“By nurturing connections between local producers and retailers and their communities we enhance the wellbeing of our communities.
“Our town centre-first approach has been held up as an example throughout the UK and globally. Now we have the opportunity to develop healthier, vibrant, and greener town centres that support communities to thrive.”
Professor Sparks said:
“Our town centres need to be successful places which are socially and economically inclusive.
“The National Review of Town Centres in 2013 and the Town Centre Action Plan which followed have provided a pathway for towns in recent years.
“COVID-19 provides a challenge to our towns and town centres, but also an opportunity to rethink and re-energise our efforts to make towns fit for all in Scotland.
“I am delighted therefore to have been asked to lead this new group at this critical and important time.”
Background
The Scottish Government provided £50 million to local authorities through the capital Town Centre Fund, announced 7 March 2019, to support progress under the Town Centre Action Plan.
Professor Sparks is Deputy Principal and Professor of Retail Studies at the Institute for Retail Studies, University of Stirling. He played a key role in the development of the 2013 plan.
A Towns and Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) Resilience & Recovery Fund of up to £2 million is being provided from the Supporting Communities Fund to build on previous funding of £1 million allocated to BIDS in March.
A survey accompanies this statement. Click the button below to access the survey.
Share your #NeverMoreNeeded story
SCVO are exploring how the voluntary sector has responded and continues to respond to coronavirus through a series of articles and discussions, and they are collating content from across the sector that tells this story.
They're asking staff and volunteers from across the voluntary sector to share their experiences through blogs, diaries and articles using #NeverMoreNeeded when sharing on social media to enable them to find relevant information. They're also creating a clip for their Charity Awards ceremony in September which will showcase some of the best #NeverMoreNeeded images charities and voluntary groups have posted so please take the time to share your content!
SCVO are exploring how the voluntary sector has responded and continues to respond to coronavirus through a series of articles and discussions, and they are collating content from across the sector that tells this story.
They're asking staff and volunteers from across the voluntary sector to share their experiences through blogs, diaries and articles using #NeverMoreNeeded when sharing on social media to enable them to find relevant information. They're also creating a clip for their Charity Awards ceremony in September which will showcase some of the best #NeverMoreNeeded images charities and voluntary groups have posted so please take the time to share your content!
The Springboard Charity Wellbeing Fund - Digital Hospitality Academy
The Springboard Charity has launched their Digital Hospitality Academy (see attached flier) across the UK and can now offer additional support to Scottish trainees.
Registration is a simple process and access to the learning is guided by experienced staff. In addition to equipping trainees with skills for Hospitality Leisure and Tourism the Academy focusses on identifying and developing skills that can be transferred to other sectors.
In Scotland, Springboard has received a grant from the SCVO Wellbeing Fund and can give additional support to trainees on a Digital Hospitality Academy programme. Once enrolled on the programme each trainee will have a needs assessment conversation with a programme manager and the organisation are able to help with a smart phone and/or data package to access learning, help to purchase right to work id, interview clothes, uniform or travel tickets and childcare costs when moving towards work and personal needs including laundry costs or new spectacles.
The Springboard Charity has launched their Digital Hospitality Academy (see attached flier) across the UK and can now offer additional support to Scottish trainees.
Registration is a simple process and access to the learning is guided by experienced staff. In addition to equipping trainees with skills for Hospitality Leisure and Tourism the Academy focusses on identifying and developing skills that can be transferred to other sectors.
In Scotland, Springboard has received a grant from the SCVO Wellbeing Fund and can give additional support to trainees on a Digital Hospitality Academy programme. Once enrolled on the programme each trainee will have a needs assessment conversation with a programme manager and the organisation are able to help with a smart phone and/or data package to access learning, help to purchase right to work id, interview clothes, uniform or travel tickets and childcare costs when moving towards work and personal needs including laundry costs or new spectacles.
July 2020
Free Risk Assessing Training Course
presented by GCVS and SVE
Tuesday, 26th August 2020, 10.30 am to 12.30 pm
Please note this course is for Third Sector organisations only!
Login from 10.20 am, session will start 10.30 am prompt. The course will be delivered online via the Zoom platform.
The link to Zoom, login and password will be sent to all delegates around 24 hours in advance of the session.
Training Course Summary
Delegates will learn how to identify and assess risk and the difference between risks and hazards. Understand the legal duty of care to ensure the health, safety and well-being of everyone in an organisation. This course will focus on risks associated with Covid – 19 and moving into Phase 3.
Aims of Session
Who Should Attend?
Anyone with Health & Safety, HR and/or line management.
Maximum number will be 25 so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Resources
A template risk assessment will be sent to attendees prior to the training so they can arrange to have three printed for to use on the day.
Click the button below to visit the Eventbrite site and secure your free ticket today.
presented by GCVS and SVE
Tuesday, 26th August 2020, 10.30 am to 12.30 pm
Please note this course is for Third Sector organisations only!
Login from 10.20 am, session will start 10.30 am prompt. The course will be delivered online via the Zoom platform.
The link to Zoom, login and password will be sent to all delegates around 24 hours in advance of the session.
Training Course Summary
Delegates will learn how to identify and assess risk and the difference between risks and hazards. Understand the legal duty of care to ensure the health, safety and well-being of everyone in an organisation. This course will focus on risks associated with Covid – 19 and moving into Phase 3.
Aims of Session
- Understand the law
- Understand how to identify hazards and risks
- Understand control measures
- Understand the cost of bad practice - human life
- The importance of good practice and top - down buy in
Who Should Attend?
Anyone with Health & Safety, HR and/or line management.
Maximum number will be 25 so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Resources
A template risk assessment will be sent to attendees prior to the training so they can arrange to have three printed for to use on the day.
Click the button below to visit the Eventbrite site and secure your free ticket today.
A Green Recovery for Scotland - #WednesdayWebinar
Wednesday, 5 August 2020 @ 11:30 - 12:30
Social Enterprise Scotland are running a series of free Webinars on a Wednesday. Here are details of the first one.
Description
What role do you think social enterprises should play in building a green economic recovery for Scotland?
What does a green recovery mean to you?
SES want your views to respond to a Scottish Parliament Committee consultation entitled Holyrood's Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee launches inquiry into a Green Recovery
Click on the button below to access more information on the consultation.
Join them alongside some key speakers to chat through green business opportunities for social enterprises.
With:
Michael Cook, Chief Executive Officer, Community Resources Network Scotland (CRNS)
David Kelly, Policy Manager, SCDI
Wednesday, 5 August 2020 @ 11:30 - 12:30
Social Enterprise Scotland are running a series of free Webinars on a Wednesday. Here are details of the first one.
Description
What role do you think social enterprises should play in building a green economic recovery for Scotland?
What does a green recovery mean to you?
SES want your views to respond to a Scottish Parliament Committee consultation entitled Holyrood's Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee launches inquiry into a Green Recovery
Click on the button below to access more information on the consultation.
Join them alongside some key speakers to chat through green business opportunities for social enterprises.
With:
Michael Cook, Chief Executive Officer, Community Resources Network Scotland (CRNS)
David Kelly, Policy Manager, SCDI
Growbiz launches £3 million Fund-raising campaign to support Scotland's rural businesses
Published on Scottish Rural Network page, 26th June, 2020.
Created by Hannah Downey
Reported to Social Enterprise sector by TSI on 24th July, 2020
Perthshire-based enterprise support organisation GrowBiz has launched the first multi-million pound campaign of its kind to support the thousands of micro-enterprises across rural Scotland disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Over 60% of rural and island businesses in Scotland had to halt all business activity at the start of the pandemic, with only 8% reporting that they were operating as usual. Working with Crowdfund Scotland, the 'REDS Fund: Supporting Rural Scotland’s Future' launches today (Thursday 25 June) and aims to raise £3 million by 3rd August, which will support almost 1200 rural micro-enterprises across Scotland.
GrowBiz CEO, Jackie Brierton MBE said: “The Coronavirus crisis has had a devastating impact on thousands of Scotland’s micro-enterprises, which form the backbone of our rural economy. In order for these businesses to survive in the short-term, they need support – both financial and practical – and a sense that they’ll be assisted to adapt where necessary and ultimately recover. One of the key target groups for the funding will be young people. Benny Higgin’s Economic Recovery report earlier this week highlighted the need for a jobs guarantee for 16 – 25 year olds but in rural areas, opportunities for self-employment and enterprise may be a more viable solution for this age group. And they’ll need funding to develop their ideas.”
Rural businesses will be able to apply to the REDS Fund for grants of up to £5000. The project is designed to help micro-enterprises connect and help each other so it will work on a 50:50 principle; 50% of the grant awarded will go the business requiring the support and 50% to whichever business(es) provide them with a service or support, thereby circulating cash within rural communities.
Businesses and social enterprises applying to the Fund will register with the first ever Rural Enterprise Directory Scotland (REDS), leading to increased collaboration and support between businesses across rural areas. They will also receive business support and advice as required from GrowBiz and other ecosystem partners.
Brierton continued; “Over the past few months, we have witnessed the hardships and suffering experienced by those who have poured years of hard work into building successful rural micro-enterprises and watched them collapse overnight as a result of the COVID19 lockdown.
“Whilst the Scottish and UK governments have provided much-needed temporary support, many small enterprises and self-employed people in rural areas are struggling to survive. Our campaign to raise £3million is the first stage of a larger vision to build a fund of £10million so we can reach and support as many of Scotland’s rural businesses and micro-enterprises as possible, providing a vital lifeline for rural communities as they recover and rebuild.”
The crowd-funding campaign for the REDS Fund: Supporting Rural Scotland’s Future is open now and runs until 3rd August.
Scottish Government Advisory Board on Social Renewal
22nd July, 2020
Original report published on ScotGov website on 9th June, 2020
Focus on equality, human rights and social justice.
An expert advisory board is to be established to drive progress towards a fairer, more equal Scotland in the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
The group will listen to and learn from people with lived experience of poverty and inequality and membership will draw on expertise from equality and disabled people’s organisations, housing and homelessness bodies, town centre and regeneration groups, and anti-poverty campaigners.
The group will be jointly chaired by Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell and Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville. Members will include Emma Ritch of Engender, Jon Sparkes of Crisis, and the Scottish Refugee Council’s Sabir Zazai.
Full details of the board can be found by clicking on the button below.
Note from editor: I was particularly interested in the link to the interactive dashboard showing the distribution of funds by authority area to date. Very interesting reading.
22nd July, 2020
Original report published on ScotGov website on 9th June, 2020
Focus on equality, human rights and social justice.
An expert advisory board is to be established to drive progress towards a fairer, more equal Scotland in the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
The group will listen to and learn from people with lived experience of poverty and inequality and membership will draw on expertise from equality and disabled people’s organisations, housing and homelessness bodies, town centre and regeneration groups, and anti-poverty campaigners.
The group will be jointly chaired by Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell and Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville. Members will include Emma Ritch of Engender, Jon Sparkes of Crisis, and the Scottish Refugee Council’s Sabir Zazai.
Full details of the board can be found by clicking on the button below.
Note from editor: I was particularly interested in the link to the interactive dashboard showing the distribution of funds by authority area to date. Very interesting reading.
Third Sector Resilience Fund
The Local Government and Communities Committee as part of their Covid-19 scrutiny wrote to all 32 Third Sector Interfaces to hear their views on emergency third sector Covid-19 emergency funding. They followed up with an evidence session in committee where they heard from Midlothian Third Sector Interface, Third Sector Western Isles and Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire, SCVO and Firstport.
Thank you to everyone who took part and to those who submitted evidence. You can read all the submissions and notes on the Scottish Government's website by clicking the button below.
Pool project takes plunge after lottery lift
Reported in the Argyllshire Advertiser, published 10th July 2020
Plans to redevelop Mid Argyll Community Pool have taken a huge step forward with a National Lottery cash injection.
The ambitious masterplan to transform MACPool into a health and wellbeing community hub was boosted this week by news that the National Lottery Community Fund has awarded a grant of £700,000 to the project. This comes in addition to a grant of £400,000 from the Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund awarded in February and £95,000 from the Robertson Trust.
Together, these funders have provided MACPool with 90 per cent of the capital build costs of the project, with applications for the remaining 10 per cent well advanced.
The lottery funding means that the group overseeing the project, Mid Argyll Community Enterprises Ltd, can brief architects and move closer to the construction stage without further delay.
Kim Ritchie, chair of the MACPool board said: ‘This is such exciting news, not just for MACPool but for the entire community of Mid Argyll.
‘We are so grateful to the National Lottery Community Fund, the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund – and to Argyll and Bute Council, which sponsored our application – and to the Robertson Trust for this major investment in our future.
‘We can’t wait to get started.’
The redeveloped MACPool will feature:
The capital build cost is, however, not the whole story and funding applications still need to be submitted for fit-out and revenue costs – though £50,000 of these have already been secured from the Co-op Communities Fund and FCC Scottish Action Fund.
Mrs Ritchie added: ‘It wouldn’t be a community pool without the opportunity for members of the community to contribute, so watch this space to see how you can be involved in building the future of your pool.’
Read the full article by clicking the button below
Reported in the Argyllshire Advertiser, published 10th July 2020
Plans to redevelop Mid Argyll Community Pool have taken a huge step forward with a National Lottery cash injection.
The ambitious masterplan to transform MACPool into a health and wellbeing community hub was boosted this week by news that the National Lottery Community Fund has awarded a grant of £700,000 to the project. This comes in addition to a grant of £400,000 from the Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund awarded in February and £95,000 from the Robertson Trust.
Together, these funders have provided MACPool with 90 per cent of the capital build costs of the project, with applications for the remaining 10 per cent well advanced.
The lottery funding means that the group overseeing the project, Mid Argyll Community Enterprises Ltd, can brief architects and move closer to the construction stage without further delay.
Kim Ritchie, chair of the MACPool board said: ‘This is such exciting news, not just for MACPool but for the entire community of Mid Argyll.
‘We are so grateful to the National Lottery Community Fund, the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund – and to Argyll and Bute Council, which sponsored our application – and to the Robertson Trust for this major investment in our future.
‘We can’t wait to get started.’
The redeveloped MACPool will feature:
- A welcoming and fully accessible community space and café
- Soft play facilities for younger children
- A modern and fully accessible shower and changing area for a wide range of users (including a changing place)
- Multi purpose activities and therapy spaces for community and business use
The capital build cost is, however, not the whole story and funding applications still need to be submitted for fit-out and revenue costs – though £50,000 of these have already been secured from the Co-op Communities Fund and FCC Scottish Action Fund.
Mrs Ritchie added: ‘It wouldn’t be a community pool without the opportunity for members of the community to contribute, so watch this space to see how you can be involved in building the future of your pool.’
Read the full article by clicking the button below
Pupils win Dragons Den competition with social enterprise ideas
An online Dragon’s Den-style competition run via Zoom has seen £100 go to two local schools.
The wins were part of a competition run by the Social Enterprise Academy under the banner Community Champions Challenge.
In total across Scotland, five pupils won £100 seed funding – two from Argyll and Bute alone.
To read the full story in The Oban Times, click the button below
An online Dragon’s Den-style competition run via Zoom has seen £100 go to two local schools.
The wins were part of a competition run by the Social Enterprise Academy under the banner Community Champions Challenge.
In total across Scotland, five pupils won £100 seed funding – two from Argyll and Bute alone.
To read the full story in The Oban Times, click the button below
Green recovery: Why resilience through the lens of sustainability is the only strategy
The blog highlighted below has been written by Lord Deben, The Rt Hon. John Gummer for the publication edie.
edie are an industry-leading, purpose-driven business media brand that empowers sustainability, energy and environmental professionals of all levels to make business more sustainable through award-winning content and events.
While this blog has been written with the private sector in mind, I felt that it was equally applicable to any third sector organisation and possibly more relevant to social enterprises as we move through Covid-19 Recovery stage.
I hope that you will find this blog to be both thought provoking and informative.
The blog highlighted below has been written by Lord Deben, The Rt Hon. John Gummer for the publication edie.
edie are an industry-leading, purpose-driven business media brand that empowers sustainability, energy and environmental professionals of all levels to make business more sustainable through award-winning content and events.
While this blog has been written with the private sector in mind, I felt that it was equally applicable to any third sector organisation and possibly more relevant to social enterprises as we move through Covid-19 Recovery stage.
I hope that you will find this blog to be both thought provoking and informative.
June 2020
cottish Government releases independent report on a Robust, Resilient Wellbeing Economy for Scotland
Report from the independent Advisory Group established by the Scottish Government to advise on Scotland’s economic recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This report details the findings of the independent Advisory Group on Economic Recovery which was established by the Scottish Government in April 2020 to provide expert advice on supporting the different regions and sectors of Scotland’s economy to recover from the impacts of Covid-19. Published on 22 June the report contains a series of recommendations directed at both the Scottish Government and other actors in Scotland’s economy identifying interventions to support Scotland’s economic recovery and facilitate the transition towards a greener, fairer and more inclusive economy with wellbeing at its heart.
The recommendations were informed by widespread engagement with the business community, trade unions, the third sector and wider civil society amongst others. A selection of these submissions can be found at the Advisory Group on Economic Recovery’s webpage. All of the submissions where permission has been granted for these to be published will follow in July.
Report from the independent Advisory Group established by the Scottish Government to advise on Scotland’s economic recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This report details the findings of the independent Advisory Group on Economic Recovery which was established by the Scottish Government in April 2020 to provide expert advice on supporting the different regions and sectors of Scotland’s economy to recover from the impacts of Covid-19. Published on 22 June the report contains a series of recommendations directed at both the Scottish Government and other actors in Scotland’s economy identifying interventions to support Scotland’s economic recovery and facilitate the transition towards a greener, fairer and more inclusive economy with wellbeing at its heart.
The recommendations were informed by widespread engagement with the business community, trade unions, the third sector and wider civil society amongst others. A selection of these submissions can be found at the Advisory Group on Economic Recovery’s webpage. All of the submissions where permission has been granted for these to be published will follow in July.
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Social Enterprises can lead Scotland’s recovery
Social Enterprises can play a key role in helping Scotland to recover from Covid-19.
The Scottish Government’s Advisory Group on Economic Recovery has launched a consultation on how the country should respond once the pandemic begins to subside in Scotland.
And Community Enterprise in Scotland (CEIS) wants to see social enterprises at the forefront of the economic fightback.
In a response to the consultation, CEIS chair Maureen Porch said that businesses should learn from social enterprises to help staff feel valued."
She said: “In relation to business practice I would strongly commend a social enterprise model as being eminently suited to the recovery phase and beyond."
“The effects of coronavirus have highlighted that the market value of jobs does not match the social value that we would associate with those jobs that have proved so vital over the last few months."
“A social enterprise model that is business orientated and is comfortable with trading, with competition and with accountability. But crucially it is a model that focuses squarely on its social and environmental impact and where any profits are reinvested for that purpose. In doing so the vast majority of social enterprises have an excellent track record on fair employment and is a sector where pay is proportionate to skills and responsibility avoiding the vast salary and condition chasms that are a feature of parts of the private sector."
“The sector can play an increasingly prominent role in economic recovery and in certain sectors, for example in care services, is clearly allied to an ethical and values driven service.”
__________________________________________
Introducing SE Connect
On 1st July, Senscot and Social Firms Scotland (SFS) will merge into a new, single entity – Social Enterprise Connect Scotland (SE Connect).
This will not be news to many of you – and follows not only on the back of the SE Review of social enterprise intermediaries (part of the SE Action Plan 2017-20) - but also after almost a decade of working closely together on a range of issues that, SENScot and Social Firms Scotland believe, have been of importance to front-line social and community enterprises across Scotland.
Both Senscot and SFS have played their respective roles in helping to support the Scottish social enterprise community over the last two decades – and the new body – SE Connect – will now act as the national representative body for social enterprise and social firms in Scotland - seeking to represent their interests and values.
They will be working with others across the sector – at both a local and national level - to help develop policies and practices that will add value to communities across the country – and to raise awareness of the important contribution made by social and community enterprises to the social and economic fabric of our country.
Social Enterprises can play a key role in helping Scotland to recover from Covid-19.
The Scottish Government’s Advisory Group on Economic Recovery has launched a consultation on how the country should respond once the pandemic begins to subside in Scotland.
And Community Enterprise in Scotland (CEIS) wants to see social enterprises at the forefront of the economic fightback.
In a response to the consultation, CEIS chair Maureen Porch said that businesses should learn from social enterprises to help staff feel valued."
She said: “In relation to business practice I would strongly commend a social enterprise model as being eminently suited to the recovery phase and beyond."
“The effects of coronavirus have highlighted that the market value of jobs does not match the social value that we would associate with those jobs that have proved so vital over the last few months."
“A social enterprise model that is business orientated and is comfortable with trading, with competition and with accountability. But crucially it is a model that focuses squarely on its social and environmental impact and where any profits are reinvested for that purpose. In doing so the vast majority of social enterprises have an excellent track record on fair employment and is a sector where pay is proportionate to skills and responsibility avoiding the vast salary and condition chasms that are a feature of parts of the private sector."
“The sector can play an increasingly prominent role in economic recovery and in certain sectors, for example in care services, is clearly allied to an ethical and values driven service.”
__________________________________________
Introducing SE Connect
On 1st July, Senscot and Social Firms Scotland (SFS) will merge into a new, single entity – Social Enterprise Connect Scotland (SE Connect).
This will not be news to many of you – and follows not only on the back of the SE Review of social enterprise intermediaries (part of the SE Action Plan 2017-20) - but also after almost a decade of working closely together on a range of issues that, SENScot and Social Firms Scotland believe, have been of importance to front-line social and community enterprises across Scotland.
Both Senscot and SFS have played their respective roles in helping to support the Scottish social enterprise community over the last two decades – and the new body – SE Connect – will now act as the national representative body for social enterprise and social firms in Scotland - seeking to represent their interests and values.
They will be working with others across the sector – at both a local and national level - to help develop policies and practices that will add value to communities across the country – and to raise awareness of the important contribution made by social and community enterprises to the social and economic fabric of our country.
Council leader urges acceleration of rural growth deal for Argyll and Bute
Published Date: 16 Jun 2020 - 15:29
The Leader of Argyll and Bute Council has urged the UK and Scottish Governments to progress Argyll and Bute’s rural growth deal, and so support the area’s recovery from the impact of COVID-19.
Councillor Aileen Morton has written to the Secretary of State for Scotland and to the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Islands and Connectivity, following the council’s recent agreement of an economic recovery plan for Argyll and Bute which features the £50 million+ rural growth deal (RGD).
Councillor Morton said:
“We have to look after our economic health as well as our physical health for our communities to live well.
Jobs lost, businesses at risk, regeneration on hold – an unhealthy economy drags everyone down in some way.
Our rural growth deal can and will play a key role in Argyll and Bute’s Covid-19 recovery.
Moving it ahead at pace has always been absolutely crucial for Argyll and Bute, even before the pandemic took its toll. The area faces unique challenges of a falling population and diverse geography.
The Deal is all about bringing transformational investment into the area, to turn economic opportunities into growth and a sustainable future for Argyll and Bute.
Making Argyll and Bute economically successful will also contribute to a UK-wide economic recovery.
We would urge both Governments therefore to work with us in delivering with urgency the economic support Argyll and Bute needs.”
Both the Scottish and UK Governments have committed £25 million each in support of projects, designed by the council, to deliver success across Argyll and Bute based on:
Attracting: additional skills, training and learning opportunities: new residents,
The next stage in the process is to agree Heads of Terms which will set out how the £50 million funding will be put to use for Argyll and Bute.
Note:
The Leader wrote to the Rt Hon Alister Jack MP, Secretary of State for Scotland and to Michael Matheson, MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Islands and Connectivity.
Published Date: 16 Jun 2020 - 15:29
The Leader of Argyll and Bute Council has urged the UK and Scottish Governments to progress Argyll and Bute’s rural growth deal, and so support the area’s recovery from the impact of COVID-19.
Councillor Aileen Morton has written to the Secretary of State for Scotland and to the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Islands and Connectivity, following the council’s recent agreement of an economic recovery plan for Argyll and Bute which features the £50 million+ rural growth deal (RGD).
Councillor Morton said:
“We have to look after our economic health as well as our physical health for our communities to live well.
Jobs lost, businesses at risk, regeneration on hold – an unhealthy economy drags everyone down in some way.
Our rural growth deal can and will play a key role in Argyll and Bute’s Covid-19 recovery.
Moving it ahead at pace has always been absolutely crucial for Argyll and Bute, even before the pandemic took its toll. The area faces unique challenges of a falling population and diverse geography.
The Deal is all about bringing transformational investment into the area, to turn economic opportunities into growth and a sustainable future for Argyll and Bute.
Making Argyll and Bute economically successful will also contribute to a UK-wide economic recovery.
We would urge both Governments therefore to work with us in delivering with urgency the economic support Argyll and Bute needs.”
Both the Scottish and UK Governments have committed £25 million each in support of projects, designed by the council, to deliver success across Argyll and Bute based on:
Attracting: additional skills, training and learning opportunities: new residents,
- visitors and businesses;
- Growing: doing more of what works; making more of our natural and built resources; and
- Connecting: our high value business sectors with national and international business markets; our local economic successes with national strategic priorities.
The next stage in the process is to agree Heads of Terms which will set out how the £50 million funding will be put to use for Argyll and Bute.
Note:
The Leader wrote to the Rt Hon Alister Jack MP, Secretary of State for Scotland and to Michael Matheson, MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Islands and Connectivity.
- The Council agreed its economic recovery plan at the Business Continuity Committee on 11 June.
DWP training register
The DWP is looking for providers to join their Dynamic Purchasing System to deliver training and support, including digital delivery and remote video sessions. The priority areas are:
The DWP is looking for providers to join their Dynamic Purchasing System to deliver training and support, including digital delivery and remote video sessions. The priority areas are:
- Employability – Training of any type that leads to a job outcome. (e.g. Security, Child minding, Bus/Lorry driving, Civil Service etc.)
- 18 – 24 year olds. Potential for being disproportionately impacted by Covid.
- Digital Skills – Possible increase of customer requiring IT skill training.
- Mental health – Coping with impact of Covid etc.
- Ex-Offenders.
- Homeless.
May 2020
Social Enterprise Reset Week
SFS (Social Firms Scotland) and Senscot are launching Social Enterprise Reset Week! They will be using the social media hashtag #SocEntReset
Argyll TSI are proud to be supporting this initiative and will be attending many of the webinars scheduled to be able to keep you updated on current thoughts, consultations and funding streams becoming available.
SFS & Senscot will be connecting and engaging with frontline community-based social enterprises right across the country through a series of conversations to determine common experiences alongside the support and funding required over the medium to longer-term to secure their sustainable future.
The conversation kicked off on Friday 1st May with an all SEN Meeting and is being followed by a week-long series of SEN meetings and a twitter campaign encouraging all social enterprises across Scotland to engage – using the hashtag #SocEntReset
Social Enterprise Reset Week – beginning in earnest on the 11th May – will include opportunities for social enterprises to contribute via virtual local and thematic SEN meetings, focus groups and themed meetings where SEs can discuss challenges, issues and opportunities with peers. There are already some key themes emerging around preparing for continued social distancing measures and reconfiguring spaces and services.
There are a number of great sessions lined up including: Future funding and investment; The future of mental health & wellbeing needs; and Building on innovation developed during Covid 19. The calendar of events and booking details can be found by clicking the button below.
In particular, SFS invite you to take part in the following sessions
Please email Jayne (jayne.chappell@socialfirms.org.uk) to book your place or sign up via the website.
Argyll TSI are proud to be supporting this initiative and will be attending many of the webinars scheduled to be able to keep you updated on current thoughts, consultations and funding streams becoming available.
SFS & Senscot will be connecting and engaging with frontline community-based social enterprises right across the country through a series of conversations to determine common experiences alongside the support and funding required over the medium to longer-term to secure their sustainable future.
The conversation kicked off on Friday 1st May with an all SEN Meeting and is being followed by a week-long series of SEN meetings and a twitter campaign encouraging all social enterprises across Scotland to engage – using the hashtag #SocEntReset
Social Enterprise Reset Week – beginning in earnest on the 11th May – will include opportunities for social enterprises to contribute via virtual local and thematic SEN meetings, focus groups and themed meetings where SEs can discuss challenges, issues and opportunities with peers. There are already some key themes emerging around preparing for continued social distancing measures and reconfiguring spaces and services.
There are a number of great sessions lined up including: Future funding and investment; The future of mental health & wellbeing needs; and Building on innovation developed during Covid 19. The calendar of events and booking details can be found by clicking the button below.
In particular, SFS invite you to take part in the following sessions
- Employability SEN session: Wednesday 13th May @ 11.30m – 12.30pm
General connect and catch up with SFS/Employability SEN members around their plans for the future and what support they will need
- Adapting your business model in response to the impact of COVID19: Thursday 14th May @ 1.00 – 2.15pm
Please email Jayne (jayne.chappell@socialfirms.org.uk) to book your place or sign up via the website.
Further Reading
Coronavirus (COVID-19): the case for extending the Brexit transition period
(Scottish Government Website)
This document is about why an extension to the Brexit transition period is vital to our economic recovery from Coronavirus (COVID-19).
In the referendum on membership of the European Union in June 2016 people in Scotland voted overwhelmingly to remain.
The Scottish Government's position is well known: They have always vehemently opposed Brexit and see Scotland's future as an independent country and an EU member state. That has not changed
(Scottish Government Website)
This document is about why an extension to the Brexit transition period is vital to our economic recovery from Coronavirus (COVID-19).
In the referendum on membership of the European Union in June 2016 people in Scotland voted overwhelmingly to remain.
The Scottish Government's position is well known: They have always vehemently opposed Brexit and see Scotland's future as an independent country and an EU member state. That has not changed
Continuous Professional Development
News In Brief
Scottish Government's route map sets out a phased approach to easing lockdown restrictions while still suppressing coronavirus (COVID-19). ‘COVID-19: Framework for Decision Making – Scotland’s route map through and out of the crisis’ gives practical examples of what people, organisations and businesses can expect to see change over time. It also highlights some of the things that won’t change for a while, including the continuing need for enhanced public health measures such as physical distancing.
Social Enterprise Funding
for details of current funding opportunities, click here