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 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 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

In the second half of 2006 Hamlet Trust set up and managed a pilot project in Newcastle, England, called Mainstreaming Business Support in Mental Health. The project aimed to reach users of mental health services wanting to become self-employed, or with an idea for setting up a small business. The project researched whether these people, if invited, would access the enterprise support networks already available to the general population. The scheme was a partnership between Hamlet Trust, Project North-East (one of the UK's largest enterprise agencies) and the research unit of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. The Trust completed this really useful report, including an account of the project, its objectives, successes, problems and recommendations, called 'Business Minds', for its funders in March 2007.

Written by Social Firms Scotland and Scottish Development Centre for Mental Health, this study aimed to begin to support the development of an evidence base for mental health improvement through employment in Social Firms, by identifying potential indicators and ways of measuring mental health impacts. To download the full report and 2 page summary please http://www.socialfirms.org.uk/whatwedo/measuringtheimpact.asp

This article calls for a change in attitude towards people with mental health problems and outlines how Social Firms are supporting this group of people.

In March 2007 Social Firms UK held a seminar entitled 'Mental Health & Social Enterprise Solutions.' A number of papers were presented that explored the challenges around mental health, recovery and employment, and considered various potential solutions, including social enterprise.