At the start of 2024, an exciting journey began with the Social Economy West Project. Designed to help charities, Community Interest Companies (CICs), social enterprises, and other third-sector organisations become financially and environmentally sustainable, this initiative has already made a meaningful impact across Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, and South Gloucestershire.
Funded by the West of England Combined Authority and supported by Business West, this project is all about providing the right support at the right time. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible organisations that are making a real difference in their communities. Each one has unique ambitions, challenges, and goals, but they all share a common drive: to grow their impact and create lasting change.
At 3SG, we understand how tough it can be to think strategically about the future when day-to-day challenges are already so demanding. That’s why we are dedicated to offer tailored support—designed with you and for you—to help navigate uncertainties and prepare for what’s next.
A Year of Impact
Over the last 12 months, we have worked with a wide range of organisations, helping them:
Diversify their income and develop sustainable funding strategies
Reach more people and expand their services
Build capacity and enhance resilience
Collaborate effectively to encourage co-production and connection.
Seeing these organisations flourish and take their next big steps has been incredibly rewarding. It’s proof that with the right support, the social economy can thrive even in uncertain times.
First Steps Bath is a childcare charity that operates three local community nurseries in Bath. Last year, they received 12 hours of fully funded consultancy support through the Social Economy West Project. During our final catch-up to discuss the outcomes and their experience, Chief Executive Officer Roz Lambert shared:
'The support through Social Economy West has been essential in helping us gather factual evidence to make strategic changes and explore realistic options to generate a surplus, ultimately increasing our impact.'
The journey doesn’t stop here. As we continue delivering the Social Economy West Project, we remain committed to helping third-sector organisations strengthen their foundations and grow their impact. If you’re part of a charity, CIC, or social enterprise looking for support, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s work together to shape a more resilient and sustainable future for our communities.
Click here to find out more about the project and future events.
Get in touch with me on alfiya@3sg.org.uk and let’s explore your next move—because your success is our shared mission!
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