Social Firms UK

The SBS commissioned this study to identify and review ways in which the promotion of enterprise could be used to support people with mental health problems back into meaningful occupation and employment. It explores the scope for people with mental health problems to become involved in enterprise, the availability and quality of current enterprise support at local level and the provision of intermediate workplaces. The study took place in the context of the Government's aim of promoting more enterprise in disadvantaged communities and groups that may face particular barriers in setting up and running their own business. (157 pages)

This publication aims to inform and inspire readers interested in running social enterprises. It includes: - a wide variety of examples; - facts and figures about their businesses and social impact; - comments from business people, politicians and other social enterprise 'champions'; - some broader explanations dealing with law and finance.

Guy Kawasaki is the CEO of Garage Technology Ventures, a venture capitalinvestment bank for high technology companies, and a columnist for'Forbes'. A noted speaker and the founder of various personal computercompanies, Guy was one of the individuals responsible for the success of theMacintosh computer. He is also the author of seven books including 'Rulesfor Revolutionaries', 'How to Drive Your Competition Crazy', 'Selling theDream' and 'The Macintosh Way'. His presentation accompanies an audio recording, available on loan on either a tape or CD. Be prepared to laugh!

Proactive Procurement' explores how it is possible for local authorities to meet their policy objectives and to achieve service improvements by procurement from social enterprises. This guidance has been commissioned by teh Provide Project of Co-operatives UK and the Social Enterprise East of England Network, through the EQUAL programme. Sections include local authority procurement requirements, European procurement rules, stages of procurement, alternatives to competitive procurement and case studies.

This report investigates what can be done to improve the lives and experiences of adults with mental health problems and sets out the Government's programme of action. The project was undertaken in close partnership with the National Institute for Mental Health in England. (144 pages)

This guide was prepared from the findings of the Evaluation of the Impact of the ESF Objective 3 programme on Disabled people, undertaken by the Disability Research Forum from April 2001 to March 2004. It provides examples of good practice from projects involved in the evaluation study and includes sections on setting up the project, project operation, next step and a directory of organisations, (19 pages).

This large report includes sections on methodology, project operation, review of core questions, co-financing study, recommendations and recommendations for further research (170 pages).

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their daily business operations and in their interaction with stakeholders on a voluntary basis. This report includes issues such as models of CSR involvement, legislation and business tools and approaches. (12 pages)

This report looks at the market for social enterprises interested in providing health and socialcare, e.g. converting to a social enterprise and business planning. (40 pages)

This folder of 12 factsheets sets out the key issues on mental health and social inclusion and provides practical tips for action. Themes include families & carers, discrimination, welfare benefits, housing, education and employment. The fact sheets include practical suggestions to help different services and staff to promote social inclusion and work in partnership. Included are examples of good practice and sources of extra support and advice. 'Action On Mental Health' accompanies the more detailed report, 'Mental Health & Social Exclusion', published by the Social Exclusion Unit in June 2004