Towards the Big Society

Published: 2 July, 2010

• AS Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne announces numerous cost-cutting measures in his Budget, the economic environment poses huge challenges for charities and social enterprises.

The Prime Minister’s vision of a “Big Society” offers an opportunity for these organisations to compete with private sector organisations to deliver public services.

To be judged not only on their social impact but also on their ability to sustain viable business models.
The needs of the people that charities support are constant, and indeed increase during times of economic hardship.

Individuals and families who depend on the support of charities and local services need to know that they can trust those organisations to be there for them for life.

Grants, loans and expert help provided by social investors like The Social Investment Business, can help even small community ventures to become sustainable and provide that security.

We believe charities and social enterprises are ready to take a central role in public life and to help make the Big Society a reality.

Hundreds of small community organisations who represent the Big Society have blossomed with this type of help. We know thousands more will too.

For more information visit: www.socialinvestmentbusiness.org

JONATHAN LEWIS
Chief Executive,
The Social Investment Business