Consultation
Strategy
Progress
Developing a
Successful Social
Economy
NI Government s Three-Year Strategic Plan 2004-07
Including Action Plan for 2004-05
Stimulating
innovation
enterprise and
competitiveness
Department of Enterprise,
Trade and Investment
Developing a
Successful Social
Economy
NI Government s Three-Year Strategic Plan 2004-07
Including Action Plan for 2004-05
September 2004
ISBN 1-902885-03-1
Crown Copyright
ISBN 1-902885-03-1
Crown Copyright
Our aim is to support the development of a strong and sustainable social economy through an
integrated partnership approach
Conte
Foreword by Barry 4
Gardiner MP Background
Information on Social
1 Economy Activity in
Introduction NI, GB and Republic
Page 11
of Ireland
Page 19 7
2
Monitoring and
Development of this
5 Reporting on Progress
Document
Achievements to Date and Evaluation
Page 13
Page 23 Page 37
3 6 8
Social Economy in Action Plan for Review of the
Northern Ireland 2004-05 Consultation Process
Page 15 Page 27 Page 39
nts
Annex A
Annex D
Summary of
Social Economy
Consultation
Network (SEN)
Responses
Page 52
Page 43
Annex E
Annex B
Inter-Departmental
List of Respondees
Steering Group (IDSG)
Page 50
Annex G
Page 54
Equality Aspects
Annex C
Page 56
Social Economy Annex F
Agency (SEA) - Social Economy
Annex H
Network Co-ordinator Forum
Bibliography
Page 51 Page 55 Page 59
Barry Gardiner MP
Minister with responsibility for
Enterprise, Trade and
Investment
As the Minister responsible for the Department of reflected in the work of the lead Department
Enterprise, Trade and Investment, and chair of the and/or the Joint Working Groups.
Social Economy Forum in Northern Ireland, I am
delighted to present this cross-departmental There are many differing ideas and views on the
Strategic Plan and Action Plan for the development concept and definition of the social economy and
of a successful social economy in Northern Ireland. its activities. The debate will and should continue
in Northern Ireland and elsewhere. In the interim,
I would like to thank everyone who responded to the definition of social economy enterprises that
the public consultation on the draft Plan published we proposed in the draft Plan has been retained.
in January of this year. We received feedback from Our focus is to facilitate and support individual
all of the key stakeholders with an interest in entrepreneurs and/or entrepreneurial groups that
developing the sector. For ease of reference, full want to consider establishing a social economy
copies of all of the responses are available on the enterprise and/or expand and develop an existing
DETI website - www.socialeconomy.detini.gov.uk enterprise. Some organisations may not wish to
follow this route. For those that do, the nature and
The Government s commitment to a more strategic scale of commercial activity undertaken will be a
and integrated approach to the development of the matter for the management of the enterprise as
sector received strong support as did the three will the legal form they choose to adopt. Finding
strategic objectives on which we propose to the right balance between social and economic
proceed. We also received many useful ideas on objectives will also be a matter to be determined
the detail of the priority areas for action included in by the enterprise.
the Action Plan for 2004-05 and these will be
Page 06
I am pleased that the Government s strategic
objectives have been supported by the sector.
Engagement with key stakeholders is central to our
plans for a joined up strategic approach. DETI will
continue to lead on this approach working with the
Inter-Departmental Steering Group and the Social
Economy Network. As chair of the Social Economy
Forum, I look forward to ensuring that the social
economy makes a significant contribution to social
and economic development in Northern Ireland.
BARRY GARDINER MP
Minister with responsibility for
Enterprise, Trade and Investment
September 2004
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 07
Executive Summary
BACKGROUND significance to the Northern Ireland economy and
The social economy is a wide and diverse sector its potential for development and further growth.
which has been operating and developing over a This has been identified as a priority area within
number of years and in some cases decades in the 2002-05 DETI Corporate Plan and this Three -
Northern Ireland with a strong tradition of Year Strategic Plan represents Government s
supporting local communities. approach to fulfil its commitment to increased
integration across Government Departments and
Social economy enterprises are distinct and unique greater partnership with the sector.
with three key characteristics; they have a social,
community or ethical purpose; they operate using DETI has already put in place a number of key
a commercial business model; and have a legal structures to develop this process of integration
form appropriate to a not-for-personal-profit status. and partnership with the sector, for example:
The sector in Northern Ireland includes a range of " the funding of the Social Economy Agency (jointly
organisations such as credit unions, housing with the Department for Social Development and
associations, local enterprise agencies, community the EU Programme for Building Sustainable
businesses, co-operatives, employee-owned Prosperity) to facilitate the establishment of an
businesses, community development finance inclusive Social Economy Network to represent
initiatives, social firms and also social the sector;
entrepreneurs. It makes a unique contribution to " the formation of an Inter-Departmental Steering
the social and economic framework of Northern Group (IDSG) to represent the 11 NI
Ireland in delivering services and creating Departments and develop greater cross-
employment and income, often but not exclusively Departmental co-operation, including preparation
for disadvantaged people and disadvantaged of this Three - Year Strategic Plan and first year
communities. Action Plan; and
" the creation of the Social Economy Forum where
AN INTEGRATED APPROACH representatives from the Network and officials
The sector is an integral part of the NI economy from IDSG and Government can work together in
and a number of Government constructive partnership.
Departments/Agencies already work with social
economy enterprises. However, it is widely THE STRATEGIC PLAN
recognised both within and outside central Three key strategic objectives will facilitate
Government, that a more integrated approach to Government s action to develop the social
the sector s development is needed to promote economy. They are to:
increased awareness of its value and particular
Page 08
" increase awareness of the sector and establish Group, which meets quarterly and at the Social
its value to the local economy; Economy Forum, which meets twice yearly. An
" develop the sector and increase its business annual progress report will also be published.
strength; and Towards the end of the three-year period, overall
" create a supportive and enabling environment. progress will be reviewed in an external evaluation
process, in consultation with the sector, to
For each objective, specific actions to be determine the way forward.
implemented by Departments/Agencies have been
set out for 2004-05. It is expected that in light of EQUALITY ASPECTS
experience, research and interaction with the Equality aspects have been considered and it is
Social Economy Forum, additional initiatives will be concluded that, while detailed data on this diverse
undertaken in each of the successive years of the sector and its make up is not currently available,
Strategic Plan with targets for delivery. Work is the social economy and the implementation of this
well advanced by four Joint Sectoral/Departmental Plan have a positive impact on Section 75 groups
Working Groups considering key areas such as and will have a key role in contributing to
mapping the size and scale of the sector, business Government s objectives in tackling poverty and
support and finance for the sector, and disadvantage.
opportunities for the sector through competitive
tendering for the delivery of public service CONCLUSION
contracts. This Strategic Plan has been widely circulated
within the social economy sector including
This Strategic Plan should, of course, be read members of the Social Economy Network, social
alongside the initiatives emerging from the work of economy enterprises, associations, federations,
the Social Economy Forum. those delivering and providing services to the
sector and others that have expressed an interest
MONITORING AND EVALUATION in helping the sector to develop and grow.
Successful implementation of this Strategic Plan
should result in a more sustainable and diverse It is available on the DETI website -
social economy, the establishment of more social www.socialeconomy.detini.gov.uk. Copies can also
economy enterprises in some social economy sub- be obtained from:
sectors and the development and growth of
established social economy enterprises that are Social Economy Unit
already trading and making a distinct and valued Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
contribution to social and economic development Netherleigh
in Northern Ireland. DETI will take forward this Massey Avenue
work and is developing a Monitoring and Evaluation Belfast BT4 2JP
Plan and will report progress on the Email: [e-mail]
implementation of this Strategic Plan through Tel no: 028 90 529369
meetings of the Social Economy Network Steering Textphone: 028 90 529304
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 09
The social economy is an integral
and vital element of the NI
economy
Introduction
1
POLICY CONTEXT In order to develop this opportunity, DETI
The social economy is a wide and diverse sector commissioned Colin Stutt Consulting to undertake
which has been operating and developing over a a major review of the sector in 2001 including an
number of years in Northern Ireland and has a initial examination of its size and scale and
strong tradition of supporting local communities. In identification of its strengths and weaknesses. It
recent years, its contribution to the social and reviewed the roles of social economy organisations
economic life of Northern Ireland has been and assessed Government s support for the sector
receiving greater recognition. Recognition is at that date. A number of recommendations
important and particularly so if we are to attract resulted, which identified actions required by the
new people, new thinking and new ideas to help sector and Government, and the two working
build on the experience, expertise and support together to develop the sector.
mechanisms that already exist within the sector.
The social economy is an integral and vital element
The first Programme for Government (PfG), of the NI economy. The 2002-05 DETI Corporate
prepared by the Executive of the NI Assembly, Plan identifies the Department s lead role in
published in April 2001, outlined the need to developing a more fully integrated approach to
sustain and enhance local communities and promote increased awareness of its value and
contained a commitment to partnership working. particular significance to the Northern Ireland
The PfG recognised the ability of the social economy and its potential for development and
economy to make a significant contribution to both growth. DETI and all of the other Government
social and economic regeneration. Departments have a key role in supporting and
developing the capacity of organisations to develop
social economy enterprises.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 11
DEPARTMENTAL POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES rather than seeking to develop their organisations
The establishment of an Inter-Departmental into social economy enterprises.It is also important
Steering Group (IDSG), led by DETI with to ensure that, at all stages, relevant issues and
representation from all NI Departments, has been actions arising from Partners for Change,
welcomed as a key element in the development of Government s Strategy for Support of the Voluntary
a more integrated approach to the social economy & Community Sector, and this strategic approach
within Government. Further details on the role of for the social economy complement each other.
the IDSG are given in Chapter 5 and it is important Much emphasis has also been placed on the need
to highlight that members participate to ensure for complementarity on policy development in
that all policies and programmes within their relation to any actions arising from the
Department are examined and their impact on the recommendations of the soon to be published final
sector appropriately assessed for example, in the report by the Taskforce on Resourcing the
implementation of DSD s People & Place - a Voluntary and Community Sector.
Strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal, the anti-
JUDGING SUCCESS
Poverty Strategy being developed by OFMDFM and
Successful implementation of this Strategic Plan
DARD s review of rural policy.
should result in a more sustainable and diverse
social economy, the establishment of more social
CLOSE PARTNERSHIP WITH DEPARTMENT FOR
economy enterprises in some social economy sub
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
sectors and the development and growth of the
social economy enterprises that are already trading
As many social economy enterprises have
and making a distinct and valued contribution to
developed from or have close relationships with the
social and economic development in Northern
voluntary and community sector, DETI is working in
Ireland. The outcomes of the Joint Working Groups
close co-operation with the Department for Social
will result in greater knowledge of the size, scale
Development (DSD) in taking this strategy forward.
and value of the sector; appropriate and accessible
We recognise that often people within voluntary
financial and business support frameworks and
and community organisations have the ideas and
increased access and capability to tender for
motivation to develop social economy enterprises.
public procurement opportunities. In addition,
DETI will be working with DSD and its partners to
social economy enterprises, through increased
ensure that there is appropriate outreach,
awareness, will be recognised by policy makers,
information and support to those in the voluntary
providers and users of services, and society as a
and community sector who see realistic advantage
whole, for their contribution to social and
in applying a business-like social economy
economic development of Northern Ireland.
approach to their activities. However the social
economy is distinct from the voluntary and
community sector and for many voluntary and
community organisations it will be appropriate that
they continue to use existing funding mechanisms
Page 12
Development of this Document
2
WHAT IS THIS DOCUMENT? of the social economy in Northern Ireland, for
This document sets out Government s Three-Year example, a number of Joint Sectoral/Departmental
Strategic Plan to implement a more integrated Working Groups have been established to research
approach to the social economy to maximise its the size, scale and value of the sector; access to
contribution to the NI economy. The Plan includes business support and finance for the sector and
three strategic objectives; provides a framework for procurement opportunities. Further details are
action for 2004-05 by individual given in Chapter 6.
Departments/Agencies; and details how
Departments will work together in partnership with HOW WAS IT PREPARED?
the sector in pursuit of the strategic objectives. The Strategic Plan incorporating an Action Plan for
The three strategic objectives are: 2004-2005 Plan has been prepared by an Inter-
Departmental Steering Group (IDSG), chaired by
" to increase awareness of the sector and DETI. The group includes representatives from all
establish its value to the local economy; NI Government Departments and the Special EU
" to develop the sector and increase its business Programmes Body (SEUPB). A draft Strategic Plan
strength; and was published in January 2004, and feedback was
" to create a supportive, enabling environment. received from all of the key stakeholders with an
interest in the development of the sector. The
Work has already started to achieve these strategic IDSG welcomed the feedback, which was very
objectives. Departments, individually and working supportive of the lead role for DETI and of the
in partnership with each other and the sector, are three strategic objectives proposed by Government
already involved in a wide variety of initiatives that as the basis on which to proceed.
will contribute to the long-term sustainable growth
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 13
The feedback focussed mainly on the three WHAT IS IN THIS DOCUMENT?
strategic objectives and the proposed priority areas Chapter 3 describes the social economy sector in
for action contained in the draft Action Plan for Northern Ireland including the definition
2004-05. All of this feedback has been used to Government is using for social economy
inform the development of this document. Some enterprises.
of the responses included specific comments and
ideas on how some of the areas for action might Chapter 4 presents background information on
be implemented. This has been disseminated to relevant activity in NI, GB and Republic of Ireland
the Department in the lead on that action and they in relation to the social economy.
will consider the material as part of their
implementation plan. For example, DETI will pick Chapter 5 identifies the structures Government
up on the range of ideas suggested on what needs has created to assist in the development and
to be done to raise awareness within Government - growth of the social economy.
Action 1.3 of the Action Plan. DETI will also
ensure that any feedback that is more relevant to Chapter 6 sets out how Government intends to
other partners is passed on to them; for example, implement the Action Plan for 2004/05. Priority
ideas on how the Social Economy Network might areas for action are listed alongside lead
raise awareness within the sector and within the Department/Agency, the partners and the
wider public as part of its Marketing Plan. implementation targets for the first year of the
Strategic Plan.
In preparing the Plan, the IDSG has continued to
maintain contact with a number of other relevant Chapter 7 describes how the Strategic Plan will be
Departmental and Cross-Departmental working monitored and evaluated.
groups to avoid duplication and ensure
complementarity in our approach. As noted in Annexes include a summary of the consultation
Chapter 1, it is recognised that DETI and DSD responses, list of respondees to the consultation
need to continue to work together on this and document, the terms of reference of the key
other policy development areas that impact on groups/structures established to facilitate a more
both the social economy sector and the voluntary strategic approach to the development of the
and community sectors. sector, equality aspects and a bibliography.
Page 14
Social Economy in Northern Ireland
3
WHAT AND WHO ARE SOCIAL ECONOMY The focus of this Strategic Plan is to ensure that
ENTERPRISES? entrepreneurial individuals or groups wishing to
The definition adopted across NI Departments of establish a social economy enterprise and those
social economy enterprises is that they must: currently managing an existing social economy
enterprise are given every opportunity to develop
" have a social, community or ethical purpose; and and grow, and, as a result, increase their
" operate using a commercial business model; and contribution to social and economic activity in
" have a legal form appropriate to a not-for- Northern Ireland.
personal-profit status.
Social economy enterprises can be constituted in
The IDSG understands, that for a variety of very different ways, for example, companies limited by
valid reasons, the adoption of a business model, guarantee, or Industrial and Provident Societies.
now or in the future, may not suit some of the The decision on the most appropriate legal entity
organisations currently involved in the social for the social economy enterprise will be a decision
economy sector. Many may wish to continue to for the management of the enterprise. They
obtain some of their income from trading activity operate across a wide range of activities such as
but not wish to operate as a social economy the provision of finance, social housing, community
enterprise. Others may believe that the business regeneration, training and employment
model is not right for them as it might distract opportunities, and support for business growth and
them from their social objectives. The IDSG also workspace.
appreciates that the decisions to be made about
finding the right balance between social and
economic activity are most properly determined by
those directly engaged in the activity.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 15
The following are types of social economy SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS
enterprises: Like the definition of social economy enterprises,
the definition and role of social entrepreneurs
" Community Businesses: enterprises that have within the social economy has generated some
strong geographical ties and focus on local debate. The IDSG welcomed all the views put
markets and services, retaining profits within the forward on this topic and will continue to
community. participate in and encourage ongoing debate and
" Credit Unions and Industrial & Provident dialogue on this and other key issues of
Societies: the provision of access to community importance to the sector. The IDSG and others
finance as savings organisations and sources of operating in the sector continue to support the
affordable credit and financial advice for the inclusion of social entrepreneurs as vital
benefit of members. contributors to the development of the social
" Housing Associations: the provision of affordable economy and recognise their role in both  kick
housing for rent or low-cost home ownership and starting and driving many social economy
also supportive housing for the elderly or people enterprises. Rather than seek to exclude social
with disabilities. entrepreneurs, the IDSG would wish to encourage
" Local Enterprise Agencies: stimulating enterprise social entrepreneurialism as a key engine for
and business growth through provision of advice, positive change in the social economy sector and,
support and workspace across Northern Ireland. particularly, if new exemplars are to be developed
" Co-operatives: associations of persons united to in the future.
meet common economic and social needs
through jointly owned and democratically WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE SOCIAL ECONOMY
controlled enterprises. IN NORTHERN IRELAND?
" Employee owned businesses: creating and Given its relatively low visibility to date and its
maintaining jobs as part of local economic diversity, no firm figures are available to quantify
development activity. the overall size and scale of the sector. A rough
" Social Firms: the provision of employment and estimate of employment was carried out in June
training for disadvantaged groups, for example, 2000 which indicated a range between 30,000
people with disabilities. jobs and 48,000 jobs (5-8% of total employment).
" Community Development Finance Institutions: However, this was based on different definitions. It
organisations that use investment funding to is now recognised that this is a relatively limited
achieve social economy aims. way of measuring the sector and it highlights the
need for a robust set of baseline figures for the
size and scale of the sector as a way of preparing
a benchmark against the social economy in the UK
and in other regions to measure growth.
Page 16
More detail on what Government is doing and In addition to the provision of goods and/or delivery
plans to do to build on the very limited data that of services, social economy enterprises are
exists on the sector is contained under Objective distinctive, arising from their social and economic
One of the Action Plan in Chapter 6. objectives, their impact on local communities, and
the way in which they operate, with an emphasis
It is recognised that systematic information exists on participative management and consultative
on some parts of the social economy such as processes. They are unique in terms of their
registered housing associations. DETI will be contribution to the NI economy in that they can:
working with the Social Economy Agency and the
Social Economy Network to ensure that new and " create income, employment and services for the
existing information is publicised and made population at large and particularly for
accessible to all parts of the sector. disadvantaged people, groups and for
disadvantaged areas;
WHAT IS THE DISTINCTIVENESS OF THE SOCIAL " provide routes to mainstream employment;
ECONOMY SECTOR? " define and promote the needs of local
The examples we have used in this chapter communities;
demonstrate the diverse range of organisations " operate with innovation and creativity to meet
and structures operating within the sector. These local needs and take advantage of opportunities;
organisations choose to operate as businesses " draw on volunteers, thereby increasing active
within the NI economy and they are unique and citizenship and voluntary donations;
distinctive in their commitment to addressing the " contribute to social capital;
double financial and social bottom line - i.e. " enable a high proportion of income to circulate
generating profits to ensure sustainability of the within the local community facilitating the
business and the ability to achieve their social or accumulation of wealth in the area; and
ethical mission - and in some cases the triple " provide channels for public funds for
bottom line through their focus on environmental disadvantaged areas and communities.
impact.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 17
Background Information on Social Economy
Activity in NI, GB and Republic of Ireland
4
The establishment of a dedicated Social Economy Departments/Agencies for the sector. Increasing
Unit within DETI in mid 2002 marked the start of knowledge and transfer of knowledge about the
an important, long-term partnership process to sector will be an ongoing element of this Strategic
work with the sector, to promote it and strengthen Plan and it will be central to Government s
its contribution to the NI economy awareness raising campaign within Departments/
Agencies and their statutory bodies.
ACTIVITY WITHIN NI DEPARTMENTS
A number of Departments/Agencies already know EU ACTIVITY
and work closely with organisations in, or The social economy is a priority area for Northern
associated with, the social economy. For some, Ireland s EU Programmes.
this relates to regulatory activities, for others, it is
the provision of business support services and/or The PEACE II Programme currently covers the
financial assistance. In addition, some period 2000-04 and is managed by the Special EU
Departments work closely with the sector on the Programmes Body (SEUPB) and delivered through
delivery of public services. a network of 56 Implementing Bodies including the
26 Local Strategy Partnerships.
A key element of the rationale for Government s
desire to have a more integrated approach to the The Peace II Programme has offered significant
social economy is to enable Departments/Agencies opportunities for the social economy sector to
to share information about how they are currently access development support. For example,
helping social economy enterprises and the impact Measure 2.3 of the Programme -  Skilling and
they are making. This will enable them to learn Building the Social Economy - is implemented by
more about the sector and, as a result, increase the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland
awareness and uptake of the advice, finance and (CFNI) and the Social Economy Agency on behalf
business support services available from of DSD. Similarly, Measure 1.4  Promoting
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 19
Entrepreneurship , administered by Invest NI aims period. This will form the basis for preparing a
to develop social entrepreneurial capacity and detailed extension proposal to the European
assist community businesses in areas Commission for negotiation and agreement. It is
disadvantaged by the conflict. hoped that all the necessary EU approvals can be
in place before the end of December 2004.
However, it is the PEACE II Priority  Locally Based
Regeneration and Development Strategies which ACTIVITY ACROSS THE UK AND REPUBLIC OF
has the greatest relevance to the social economy IRELAND
and which is delivered through 26 LSPs. Around In July 2002, the Department of Trade and
Ł60 million has been available to LSPs under Industry s (DTI) Social Enterprise Unit published
PEACE II up to the end of 2004 and is intended  Social Enterprise: a strategy for success . The
primarily to enable the LSPs to support the strategy identifies issues which contribute to the
development of social economy activity in their success of the social enterprise sector and, where
areas. LSPs have therefore been active throughout necessary, it seeks to remove the barriers that are
NI in raising the profile of the sector and preventing its growth and development. DTI has
supporting its development. established an Inter-Departmental Official Group to
monitor the implementation of the strategy, report
The LSP Working Group, representing all 26 LSPs, on progress and alert members to new issues and
has commissioned an independent evaluation of initiatives arising. DETI is a member of this Group.
LSP performance. This will examine their DTI published its first annual progress report on the
achievements under PEACE II Programme, the Strategy in October 2003, including an update on
value of their Integrated Local Strategies and the activity in Northern Ireland. DETI continues to work
extent to which they are achieving sustainability. closely with DTI to ensure that Northern Ireland
The findings of this evaluation will be available late benefits from close involvement with this work and
2004/early 2005 and will contribute to the also to ensure that NI receives appropriate
developing knowledge of the social economy in consideration within the broader UK picture. The
Northern Ireland. overall approach set out in this Strategic Plan
reflects the DTI framework and will allow NI to
It is now hoped that the PEACE II Programme will contribute and participate in UK wide
be extended for a further 2 years, albeit with less activities/initiatives and to benchmark our progress.
resources than in previous years of the
Programme. The SEUPB has been consulting
widely over the summer months as to how best to
allocate the available resources in the extended
Page 20
The Scottish and Welsh devolved administrations economic and social regeneration of local
are also represented on this DTI Group and are communities and create sustainable employment.
also preparing strategies to promote and develop
the social economy sector in their respective While there are national and regional variations in
areas. approach and priorities, the opportunity to share
ideas and learn from other experiences/successes
In April 2004 the Welsh Assembly Government will be important as each administration
published its report on the Consultation Document implements its strategies and action plans.
 Social Enterprise Action Plan issued in July
2003. A Joint Working Group will develop In addition to monitoring progress within Northern
proposals and ensure that the social economy Ireland, other parts of the UK and the Republic of
sector in Wales can actively participate in the Ireland at various official levels and Fora,
proposed  Social Enterprise Strategy for Wales Government will continue to work with the Social
which is intended to be published early 2005. Economy Network and other existing networks and
partnerships to promote opportunities. These
In January 2003, the Scottish Executive published actions will enable the assessment of international
a  Review of the Scottish Executive s Policies to best practice which, where relevant and
promote the Social Economy , to assess the appropriate, will be used in the development of
sector s potential to contribute to the achievement policies, programmes and initiatives for the sector
of key Scottish Executive objectives and to identify in Northern Ireland.
how the Executive and other public sector and
independent agencies might help the sector to
realise its potential. The Executive has been
working with key players in the sector to identify
opportunities for the sector and plans to publish its
social economy strategy shortly.
In the Republic of Ireland, the Department of
Enterprise, Trade & Employment s Social Economy
Programme, operated by FAS (Foras Aiseanna
Saothair, the Training and Employment Authority in
the Republic of Ireland) supports the development
of social economy enterprises to benefit the
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 21
Key structures provide opportunity
for ongoing dialogue and
partnership between the social
economy and the public sector
Achievements to Date
5
KEY STRUCTURES the Government s drive to work in partnership with
The main focus for DETI to date has been to put in the sector, the SEA was asked by Government to
place the key structures required to take forward facilitate the establishment of an inclusive Social
the desired integration and complementarity of Economy Network to represent and act on behalf
objectives. This has resulted in the following: of the sector right across Northern Ireland. The
funding from DETI, DSD and the EU Programme for
" the funding of the Social Economy Agency to Building Sustainable Prosperity (Ł600,000 in total)
facilitate the establishment of an inclusive Social for the delivery of this project is based on a 4 year
Economy Network to represent the sector; (2002-2006) Business Plan and Annual Operating
" the formation of an Inter-Departmental Steering Plans prepared by the SEA, agreed with the
Group to develop greater cross-departmental co- Funders and endorsed by the Network.
operation including preparation of this Three Year
Strategic Plan and Action Plan for 2004/05; and The SEA, as the Network Co-ordinating Agent,
" the creation of the Social Economy Forum where reports to DETI and DSD on progress against
representatives from the Social Economy delivery of the project. The SEA s key areas for
Network and officials from IDSG and Government action are also discussed and endorsed by the
can work in partnership. Network Steering Group and associated Open
Committees. In addition, DETI and DSD will
THE SOCIAL ECONOMY AGENCY undertake an annual independent evaluation of the
The Social Economy Agency (SEA) has for many Network Co-ordinating Agent s performance in
years promoted the benefits that can be derived carrying out this role and associated work
from social economy enterprise activity. As part of programme. A first evaluation, which is due to be
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 23
completed in September 2004, is designed to help development of the social economy is an objective
ensure that the Network is inclusive and that to which all Departments can contribute. In
individuals and/or organisations joining it continue addition, the cross-border Special EU Programmes
to benefit from their membership. A summary of Body, which has responsibility for significant
the key areas for action by the Network Co- funding for the social economy sector, has
ordinating Agent is included at Annex C. observer status on the IDSG. The main focus of
the Group has been to provide leadership across
SOCIAL ECONOMY NETWORK Departments on how policies and programmes
The creation of a fully inclusive Social Economy support, or indeed, hinder the growth of the sector,
Network will enable the sector to operate in a encourage greater cross-departmental co-operation
more structured and coherent way, to share best and identify key action points to increase the
practice, and, while acknowledging the sector s sector s potential to build social capital and create
diversity, consider collectively the range of key wealth and jobs, particularly in disadvantaged
issues that will affect its long-term growth and areas.
sustainability. It can provide the impetus not just
to replicate existing successful social enterprise In addition to Group meetings, significant time has
activity but also to generate fresh ideas and been devoted to a series of bi-laterals with all
identify new opportunities for the sector. Through Departments to promote and increase awareness
its Marketing Plan, including a new website, the of the sector and to ensure that Government s
Network will raise awareness of the social economy social economy objectives are integrated into
and promote its benefits across the sector. The Departmental policies and programmes. The
Network is a membership-based organisation, current agreed Terms of Reference for the IDSG
drawing its membership from social economy are at Annex E and will be reviewed during 2004-
enterprises and networks, supporting rural and 05 to reflect the implementation stage of the Plan.
urban communities across Northern Ireland. It is
encouraging to note that, in August 2004, over While both the Network and the IDSG have their
200 organisations have joined the Network. The own roles and responsibilities, the Network is
role and structure of the Network is set out at identified as a partner in a number of the activities
Annex D. in the Action Plan and, outside the Forum
meetings, there will be regular exchanges of
INTER-DEPARTMENTAL STEERING GROUP information and bi-laterals, between the members
An Inter-Departmental Steering Group (IDSG), of the two groups, as appropriate.
chaired by DETI, has been established with
representation from all NI Departments as the
Page 24
SOCIAL ECONOMY FORUM ongoing and structured dialogue between the
A Social Economy Forum has been established social economy and the public sector. Their
where officials from the IDSG and members of the operation and activities will be included in the
Social Economy Network Steering Group work overall Monitoring and Evaluation Plan (see
together under the chairmanship of the DETI Chapter 7) to ensure optimum outcomes in terms
Minister, acting in close co-operation with the DSD of their operation and effectiveness in meeting
Minister. This partnership has been formed to their objectives.
enable the sector to raise and debate key issues in
a high-level policy forum, contribute to ongoing
policy change and development, and work in
partnership through shared learning and expertise
to champion the social economy.
The Forum has now held two successful meetings
in June 2003 and February 2004 and is
addressing a range of issues, identified by the
Social Economy Network, of strategic importance
to the sector. A key outcome of the first meeting
was a prioritised work programme, with many of
the issues to be taken forward by Joint Working
Groups comprising Network and IDSG members 
details are given in Chapter 6.
The SEA and the Social Economy Unit in DETI
provide a Joint Secretariat service to the Forum
which will meet every six months to review
progress on each aspect of the prioritised work
programme and consider any additional areas for
further action. The agreed Terms of Reference for
the Forum are at Annex F.
IMPACT OF THE STRUCTURES
The creation and operation of the key structures
noted above provide the opportunity for joint,
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 25
Actions to raise the profile of the
sector, develop and increase its
business strength and create a
supportive and enabling
environment
Action Plan for 2004/05
6
Three key strategic objectives have been identified Responses to the draft consultation document
to facilitate Government s actions to develop the made a number of helpful suggestions on the
social economy in a more co-ordinated and priority areas for action to the existing action
integrated way. They are to: points, some of which have already been included
in this document. The responsible
" increase awareness of the sector and establish Department/Agency will continue to consider how
its value to the local economy; best to take forward other proposals, as they
" develop the sector and increase its business implement the Action Plan. It is therefore
strength; and expected that these initial actions will be refined
" create a supportive and enabling environment. and, in light of experience and research,
particularly through the Joint Working Group
For each objective, specific agreed actions to be activities, additional initiatives will be undertaken
implemented during the first year of the Strategic and included in annual Action Plans for each of the
Plan by Departments/Agencies are identified. For remaining years of the Strategic Plan.
each action, the lead or co-ordinating
Department/Agency is identified along with partners
and implementation targets. Every action will
involve direct contact with the social economy
sector and effective delivery will be based on a
partnership that exchanges experience, information
and knowledge.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 27
the SEA has developed a Marketing Plan to
OBJECTIVE 1
increase awareness within the sector and of the
INCREASE AWARENESS OF THE SECTOR AND
opportunities and support available for the sector
ESTABLISH ITS VALUE TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY
to promote it more widely. Both the IDSG and the
The general level of awareness of the sector and
Network will use case studies to illustrate the
its potential across the public and private sectors
diversity and potential of the sector and will work
and the general public is not high. Within the
together to ensure complementarity and to
social economy sector itself and across the
maximise the impact and outcomes of this work.
broader voluntary and community sector, levels of
understanding could be improved and the benefits
Associated with increasing awareness of the sector,
and opportunities it can offer, need to be more
we need to establish robust baseline information
proactively communicated. To increase this
on the size, scale and value of the sector, from
knowledge and raise awareness, DETI supported,
which to measure growth and to build into the
in January 2003, a major conference organised by
overall NI economic picture. While there have
Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action
been some studies into particular parts of the
(NICVA) on the social economy. DETI and DFP
sector, for example, on housing associations and
support was also given to the Community
co-operatives, as well as local studies by some
Development Finance Association (CDFA) to hold
LSPs, a consistent and more comprehensive
an event in June 2003 to highlight investment
analysis of the sector is required. A Joint Working
opportunities through the Community Investment
Group is addressing these issues and contributing
Tax Relief and DETI also sponsored the CDFA
to the DTI-led first UK-wide baseline research.
Annual Conference in Belfast in June 2004.
This research will focus on capturing baseline
Some awareness raising work has been underway
information on a core group of social economy
within Government through the IDSG, the Forum
enterprises, ie employees, geographical location,
and bi-laterals on inputs to this Strategic Plan.
core trading activity and turnover. For practical
More work in this area is required, hence the
purposes, this initial baseline research cannot
development of a comprehensive Communications
include all social economy enterprises but its
Strategy and Programme to raise the profile of and
limitations will not restrict Government support for
knowledge about the sector across Government
the sector. To gain more accurate baseline data
Departments/Agencies and the wider public sector.
for the Northern Ireland social economy
The strategy will consider a range of targeted
enterprises, proposals will be developed by the
approaches to policy makers and staff involved in
Joint Working Group on expanding this initial
business support and procurement opportunities.
research.
As part of its work as Network Co-ordinating Agent,
Page 28
The outcome of the work on social capital
indicators commissioned by the Voluntary and
Community Unit in DSD and undertaken by
Community Evaluation Northern Ireland (CENI) will
be one of the initiatives used to help identify a
number of agreed measurements to capture the
 added value of social impacts in addition to
economic and financial indicators. This will, in
addition to the mapping exercise, help contribute
to the measurement of the value of the social
economy sector to the Northern Ireland economy
and also to initiatives promoting social inclusion.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 29
OBJECTIVE 1: INCREASE AWARENESS OF SECTOR AND ESTABLISH ITS VALUE TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY
Actions Lead/Coordinating Partners Implementation Targets
Department/Agency
1.1 Participate in the DTI-led DETI DTI, Disseminate results of study in line with
first UK-wide Mapping Study Joint Working Group DTI timetable by December 2004.
of the social economy to
establish baseline data on a
core group of social
economy enterprises.
1.2 Undertake further work to DETI Joint Working Group Submit recommendations for further work
extend the scope of the DTI to the Social Economy Forum by March
Mapping Study at NI level. 2005 and lead and manage
implementation as agreed.
1.3 Facilitate the creation and DETI IDSG, Undertake initial programme during period
implementation of a SEN September 2004-March 2005.
targeted Communications
Strategy and Programme to
increase awareness within
Government
Departments/Agencies and
their statutory bodies of the
current and potential future
value/contribution of the
social economy to the
Northern Ireland economy.
1.4 Ensure complementarity DETI IDSG, Ongoing - at monthly progress meetings
between IDSG s SEN with SEA as Network Co-ordinating Agent.
Communications Strategy
and Programme and the
SEN s Communications
Strategy and Marketing Plan
to promote the Network,
Forum and benefits of the
social economy throughout
Northern Ireland.
1.5 Review, in consultation with DETI DSD, Initiate action in January 2005, following
the Social Economy Network SEN publication of DSD Toolkit to measure
and others with expertise, if social capital outcomes of voluntary and
and how DSD-led work on community based activity in December
the development of social 2004, and complete initial analysis by 31
capital indicators primarily March 2005.
for voluntary and community
sector activity might be
developed for use by the
social economy.
1.6 Work with the sector and DETI SEN, Ongoing discussions with partners.
others to identify range of DSD,
social auditing tools and Invest NI,
disseminate this information DTI
and advice.
Page 30
OBJECTIVE 1: INCREASE AWARENESS OF SECTOR AND ESTABLISH ITS VALUE TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY
Actions Lead/Coordinating Partners Implementation Targets
Department/Agency
1.7 Input to Departmental DETI All Departments, Ongoing - DETI will continue to work with
assessments of the impact IDSG IDSG colleagues to ensure appropriate
on the social economy of reflection of the social economy in
any new relevant policy initiatives within
policies/programmes. Departments/Agencies and promote
usage of the NI Policy Making Guide for
Departments.
1.8 Increase awareness of social DE CCEA, In the context of the revised curriculum
economy enterprises within SEN develop opportunities to include social
the education/careers economy within the Learning for Life and
system. Work module by March 2005.
1.9 Introduce award(s) DETI Invest NI, Identify opportunities for recognition for the
categories to acknowledge DTI, social economy by March 2005.
and promote excellence in SEN
the social economy.
1.10Exchange knowledge and DETI DTI, Ongoing - regular quarterly contact.
identify opportunities for the Welsh Assembly
sector through North/South Government,
and East/West co-operation Scottish Executive,
at Government level. Republic of Ireland
Government
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 31
To achieve their objectives, social economy
OBJECTIVE 2
enterprises need to know, for example, how to
DEVELOP THE SECTOR AND INCREASE ITS
increase capacity and win new business, handle
BUSINESS STRENGTH
legal and financial issues, recruit and manage
The overall aim is to facilitate and support
staff, including volunteers. As a business moves
individual entrepreneurs and/or entrepreneurial
from start-up stage to a growth phase, its needs
groups to establish social economy enterprises and
will change and different advice is required.
strengthen existing ones to enable them to be
more competitive and sustainable, and therefore
There are many sources of business advice and
achieve their social and economic objectives.
support both within the sector itself and from
Invest NI s Corporate Plan notes the opportunity to
Departments/Agencies and the private sector and it
harness entrepreneurial spirit within the sector and
will be necessary to ensure that these services are
its Accelerating Entrepreneurship Strategy
available across Northern Ireland, complimentary
highlights the need to generate more social
and that social economy enterprises realise the
enterprises as a clear priority. To date this activity
value of and can access this advice. Funders and
has been channelled through the Community
business advisors, in turn, need to understand the
Business Start Up Programme (CBSUP) delivered
sector in order to work with social economy
by a consortium of the Local Enterprise Agencies,
enterprises and provide best advice for their
which has been successful in encouraging the
individual circumstances.
development of 55 community businesses since
2002. A recent evaluation of the CBSUP has
In addition and in view of the distinctiveness of the
recommended its expansion as a new Social
sector in addressing the double bottom line, and,
Entrepreneurship Programme, to support new and
in some cases, the triple bottom line,
existing social economy enterprises.
consideration needs to be given to additional
specific interventions to address identified needs
The availability of an integrated, appropriate and
within the sector. The social economy sector itself
accessible financial framework for the full range of
has been active and provides a range of tailored,
social economy enterprises at all stages of their
sectoral training and we will work together to
development is critical. A Joint Working Group on
identify additional needs and consider how these
Finance developed Terms of Reference for a study,
needs should best be met and by whom.
being funded by DETI, to examine all principal
sources of finance and associated financial
A Joint Working Group on Business Support will
products available to the social economy in
report shortly on work to assess the needs of the
Northern Ireland. Based on international best
sector through the business life cycle and make
practice, the study will recommend an integrated
recommendations to address gaps leading to a
and accessible framework for financial support,
clearly signposted business support framework for
including the potential for new or innovative
the sector. The Group s work has been supported
financial products.
by the Research Co-ordinator funded through the
DETI/DSD/BSP support to the Network
Access to a wide range of business advice,
Co-ordinating Agent.
guidance and training is as essential for a social
economy enterprise as for any enterprise.
Page 32
OBJECTIVE 2: DEVELOP THE SECTOR AND INCREASE ITS BUSINESS STRENGTH
Actions Lead/Coordinating Implementation Targets
Department/Agency Partners
2.1 Commission external study DETI Submit recommendations for action to
into sources of finance and Joint Working Group the Forum in October 2004 and lead and
financial products for the manage implementation as agreed.
social economy sector.
2.2 Participate in activities to DETI Ongoing - identify opportunities to
promote existing and new Invest NI, contribute to increased awareness of
sources of finance for the DFP, sources of finance.
sector. SEN
2.3 Assess the business support DETI Joint Working Group Submit recommendations for action to
needs of the sector, identify the Social Economy Forum in October
gaps and recommend 2004 and lead and manage
priority areas for action implementation as agreed.
within the public, private and
social economy sectors.
2.4 Research opportunities to Invest NI DEL, Assess business training needs for
adapt/extend existing DETI, development of social entrepreneurs for
schemes and initiatives to SEN social economy enterprises by March
meet the needs of social 2005.
economy enterprises.
Invest NI DETI, By December 2004, pilot three new
SEN support service initiatives for the sector.
Invest NI DETI, Launch new Social Entrepreneurship
SEN Programme by December 2004.
Invest NI DETI, Review all Invest NI business
SEN development products by March 2005.
All Departments SEN Ongoing - individual Departments to
ensure Employer Supported Volunteering
initiatives include options to engage with
the social economy sector.
DFP SEN Review the NICS Interchange Scheme by
December 2004 in conjunction with NI
Interchange Partners Group (which
includes representatives from 11 NI
Departments and NIO), to include
representation and participation by the
social economy sector.
DSD SEN Contribute to the review of the IFI
Community Leadership Programme by
December 2004.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 33
OBJECTIVE 2: DEVELOP THE SECTOR AND INCREASE ITS BUSINESS STRENGTH
Actions Lead/Coordinating Partners Implementation Targets
Department/Agency
2.5 Promote access to and DETI Invest NI, By November 2004, develop a more co-
benefits of broadband for DSD, ordinated approach to the development
the social economy. OFMDFM, of broadband within the sector.
SEN
2.6 Review Local Delivery NITB District Councils, Ongoing - ensure needs of social
Network to develop more Regional Tourism economy sector are identified and
effective co-ordinating Partnerships, addressed within any future regional
structure for the delivery of SEN structure.
tourism in NI.
2.7 Introduce a series of DEL Key local To be tested by means of a series of pilot
Intermediate Labour Market stakeholders (Public, programmes up to 31 March 2006.
initiatives including private, statutory and Interim evaluation of component parts by
transitional employment voluntary); District March 2005.
opportunities for long term Councils via Local
unemployed adults in 4 Strategy
targeted geographical areas, Partnerships;
linked where possible to the Community/Voluntary
development of social sectors and SEN
economy.
2.8 Promote Corporate Social DETI Home Office, Represent NI on UK Corporate Social
Responsibility and Business in the Responsibility Inter Departmental Working
disseminate examples of Community, Group - ongoing.
good practice and resultant SEN
benefits to business.
2.9 Undertake a review of rural DARD IDSG, Review to be completed by October 2004
development policy, SEN with outcomes considered and taken
including the identification of forward.
opportunities to develop the
social economy within the
rural context.
2.10Develop and promote new DCAL Invest NI, Publish the new medium-term Action Plan
Unlocking Creativity Action SEN by 30 September 2004.
Plan and ensure that social
economy enterprises in the
creative industries sector are
made aware of and can
access relevant sources of
support.
Page 34
A Joint Working Group on Procurement including
OBJECTIVE 3
DETI, Central Procurement Directorate and the
CREATE A SUPPORTIVE, ENABLING
sector, is developing plans that will ensure
ENVIRONMENT
increased access for the sector to information and
The social economy sector will not reach its
advice, thereby creating the opportunity for social
potential if there are legal, regulatory, or policy
economy enterprises, whether individually or in
barriers that act as obstacles to growth.
collaboration, to develop their capability to tender
Government s aim is to create a supportive and
for relevant public procurement contracts or
enabling framework within which social economy
undertake work as subcontractors. A Procurement
enterprises have the opportunity to grow and
Guide for Social Economy Enterprises is being
develop.
developed and will be used as an information and
training tool. The Group is also considering how to
DETI recently consulted widely on plans to create
increase awareness of the potential capacity of the
more flexibility in the legal forms available for
social economy among those in both the private
social economy enterprises through proposals to
and public sector with responsibility for procuring
introduce the Community Interest Company (CIC)
goods and/or services. In particular, the public
to Northern Ireland. A CIC is a new type of
sector including Departments, District Councils,
company designed for social economy enterprises
Boards and Trusts will be challenged to consider
that want to use their profits and assets for the
how it can work with the sector to identify products
public good. In addition, following public
and services for which social economy enterprises
consultation, work is underway to modernise and
could tender and demonstrate their ability to
reform key policy areas for the legal framework for
address best value in social and economic terms.
Credit Unions and Industrial and Provident
Societies. A review of charities legislation by DSD
in 2005 will include consideration of opportunities
to support and strengthen the social economy.
Parts of the social economy sector already deliver
services through public procurement activity.
However, the potential for the sector to tender for
and achieve higher levels of income through
procurement  whether from public sector, the
private sector or within the social economy sector
itself  is currently limited. This is due, in part, to a
lack of knowledge and capability within social
economy enterprises and by low levels of
awareness of those procuring goods and services
of the sector and its potential to compete.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 35
OBJECTIVE 3: DEVELOP A SUPPORTIVE AND ENABLING ENVIRONMENT
Actions Lead/Coordinating Partners Implementation Targets
Department/Agency
3.1 Introduce legislation to DETI DTI, Draft legislation proposals to be circulated
enable establishment of Home Office, for consultation by March 2005.
Community Interest SEN
Companies in NI.
3.2 Review and update Policy DETI Credit Unions, Legislation to be in place by April 2006.
and regulatory framework in Industrial and
Northern Ireland for Credit Provident Societies,
Unions and Industrial and SEN
Provident Societies.
3.3 Review the administration DSD SEN Consultation document on
and legislative arrangements policy/legislative proposals to issue by
for NI Charities. March 2005.
3.4 Identify and maximise the DFP/Central Joint Working Group, Publish Procurement Guide for Social
opportunities for the social Procurement Economy Enterprises by September 2004
economy to compete for the Directorate with recommendations on associated
delivery of public services. training and awareness events to the
Forum in October 2004.
3.5 Ensure through the Better DETI IDSG Publication of new NI Regulatory Impact
Regulation Strategy, that all Guide for Departments by 30 December
Regulations affecting the 2004 to include social economy
business community enterprises in relation to Small Firms
consider the impact on the Impact Test.
social economy.
3.6 Review of Childcare Policy to DHSSPS DEL, By March 2005 liaise with Social
be taken forward as part of DE Economy Network to establish role in
the review of Children First. SEN relation to contribution to review process.
3.7 Identify opportunities for a DHSSPS SEN By December 2004, prepare and
Social Economy Model in disseminate case study to the sector on
the Care in the Community models of good practice.
Strategy.
Page 36
Monitoring and Reporting on Progress and
Evaluation
7
It will be important to be able to identify to what monitoring data; identify gaps in their
extent the Strategic Plan s objectives and actions monitoring information and proposals to
have been achieved; how effectively the various address them to enable them to report
structures to support the sector are operating and progress and assist in the development of the
what impact this first Strategy for the sector, as a following year s Action Plan. Individual
whole, has had to inform decisions about future Departments and Agencies will be responsible
policy. To achieve this, an external evaluation, for undertaking the various impact
using qualitative and quantitative methods as assessment processes  eg equality impacts
appropriate and involving the social economy and rural proofing as appropriate.
sector as stakeholders, will be carried out in
2006-07. The outcomes of the evaluation will (b) Structures  the operation and effectiveness
be published. of the Social Economy Network (and the SEA
as the Network Co-Ordinating Agent), the
In the interim and in order to feed into and IDSG and the Social Economy Forum, in
enhance the overall evaluation, a Monitoring and terms of meeting their objectives, will be
Evaluation Plan is being prepared which will monitored and reviewed.
address the following areas:
DETI will report progress at Social Economy
(a) Annual Action Plans  each Department and Network meetings and also at the twice-yearly
Agency with direct responsibility for specific Social Economy Forum meetings. In addition, DETI
actions in the Action Plan will identify, where will lead on the preparation of a composite annual
appropriate, baseline positions; ensure the progress report on the 2004-05 and each
collection and compilation of relevant subsequent annual Action Plan.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 37
Review of the Consultation Process
8
The consultation document was issued on 26 in conjunction with the Social Economy Network
January 2004 to a wide range of organisations and individual members of the Network Steering
identified within DETI s Equality Scheme, to Group arranged a number of regional and local
members of the Social Economy Network, the events with rural and urban social economy
social economy sector, including social economy enterprises to discuss the consultation document.
enterprises, associations, federations those In total 15 events were held.
providing services to the sector and others that
have expressed an interest in helping the sector to DETI received 40 written responses on the
develop and grow. The initial distribution Consultation Document. A summary of
amounted to 650 copies. A further 300 copies consultation responses is provided at Annex A and
were distributed during the consultation process highlights the key issues raised. An
which finished on 30 April 2004. acknowledgement of the names of all the
organisations that provided a written response is
Advertisements were placed in the Belfast included at Annex B. For those who might wish to
Telegraph (and the Londonderry edition), the Irish study the responses in more detail, access to a full
News and the Irish Times to highlight the copy of each of the 40 written responses is
availability of the document. The document was available through the DETI website -
also placed on the DETI website. Ministerial press www.socialeconomy.detini.gov.uk or by hard copy
releases were issued at the start of the process on request to the Social Economy Unit in DETI.
and also in mid-April to alert potential consultees
of the imminent end of the consultation period.
A pro-active consultation process was pursued
through face to face meetings and events to
ensure full participation. The Social Economy Unit,
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 39
Annex
Annex A
Summary of Consultation
Responses
Annex B
Responses received to
 Developing a Successful Social
Economy (Jan-May 2004)
Annex C
Social Economy Agency s Priority
Areas for Action as Network
Co-ordinating Agent
Annex D
Summary of Objective, Role and
Structure of the Social Economy
Network
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 41
Annex
Annex E
Terms of Reference for Social
Economy Inter-Departmental
Steering Group (IDSG)
Annex F
Terms of Reference for the Social
Economy Forum
Annex G
Equality Aspects
Annex H
Bibliography
Page 42
Annex A
Summary of Consultation Responses
INTRODUCTION undertaking a parallel consultation document
In total, DETI received 40 written responses on the ( Pathways for Change ) gives cause for
Consultation Document. An acknowledgement of concern.
the names of all of the organisations that provided
a written response is included at Annex B. In most " There is still not a clear integrated strategy on
cases, respondents addressed the consultation how Government is going to address the needs
questions included in the document. Some of the third sector.
respondents also provided additional comments on
other sections of the document and some made " Unclear how  Developing a Successful Social
more general observations about the sector and its Economy dovetails with  Pathways for Change .
role. The summary of responses below highlights
the key points made on the consultation " The strategy for the social economy must be
document, however for those that might wish to firmly linked with  Pathways for Change
study the responses in more detail, access to a full document and the emerging strategy that
copy of each of the 40 written responses is results from that particular consultation.
available through the DETI website 
www.socialeconomy.detini.gov.uk. " The social economy is a sub-sector of wider
Or by hard copy on request to the Social Economy economic activity in NI  pleased that DETI, the
Unit in DETI. Department with primary responsibility for
economic development, is recognising and
Email: [e-mail] taking lead role in developing the social
Tel. No: 028 90 529369 economy.
Textphone: 028 90 529304
CHAPTER 2 - DEVELOPMENT OF THIS
SUMMARY OF CONSULTATION CONSULTATION DOCUMENT
RESPONSES " The  joined-up approach that is indicated in
CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION the strategy is a positive way forward and this
" Recognition of the diversity of the sector should be reflected in other programmes and
welcomed and departmental approach to this initiatives promoted by Government
diversity must be real, imaginative and flexible. Departments.
" The fact that the  Task Force on Resourcing the " Imperative to link with other Departments, which
Voluntary and Community Sector , has been is the role of the Inter-Departmental Steering
Group (IDSG).
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 43
" There is an existing impression, rightly or " Welcome the attempt to define social economy
wrongly, that there has been very little enterprises contained in this document. Any
community input into the preparation of this definition of the social economy model must be
document. inclusive. The final agreed definition should be
better promoted throughout the voluntary and
" Consultation with SE enterprises in rural areas community sector.
to date has not been widespread and the
strategy has been developed, rightly or wrongly, " Concern that the commercial business model
from a strong top-down perspective. implies that SEEs must be wholly reliant
on/supported by trading income. Many SEEs
" Concern that each action (in the Action Plan) generate income through a number of sources
gives control and status to Government and the and would not meet the commercial business
sector is seen as a contributor and consultee model.
rather than a partner.
" Different organisations operating in the social
CHAPTER 3 - SOCIAL ECONOMY IN NORTHERN economy have different needs which must be
IRELAND understood and addressed.
" Interspersing of terminology such as  Social
Economy ,  Social Enterprises and  Social " This strategy should firmly nail its colours to the
Economy Enterprises without clear distinction social enterprise mast.
has the potential to further muddy what are
already cloudy waters. " Important to get the partnership and balance
between social and economy right.
" Although DETI s draft paper aims at  developing
a successful social economy , it fails to provide " In favour of an inclusive approach that allows
a definition of the Social Economy. groupings to include themselves if they seek to
become sustainable through any form of trading
" If Government does not establish at the outset which decreases their dependence on grants
the precise scale, composition and areas of and subsidies.
activities of all the organisations comprising this
sector, then no factual and rational basis exists " The inclusion of  social entrepreneurs being
to develop and strengthen the social economy in classified as a social economy enterprise is
the ways outlined in the consultation paper. adverse to the values and principles that drive
social economy activity.
Page 44
" How can an individual be a social economy CHAPTER 5 - ACHIEVEMENTS TO DATE
enterprise? " Social Economy Agency headquarters in Derry
and a bit inaccessible to other parts of NI.
" Concern that the definition of social
entrepreneur could include private sector " Social Economy Agency should be encouraged
businesses. to regularly update the case studies on their
website and to include wider information and
" Finding ways to encourage social contact details of successful SE enterprises from
entrepreneurship is as important as developing other locations in the UK and Ireland.
entrepreneurship in NI in general.
" The strategy should also include supporting the
" Social entrepreneurs are vital in both  kick Social Economy Agency in facilitating the Social
starting and driving social enterprises. Economy Network.
" Social entrepreneurs need timely access to a " Hope that the Social Economy Network will
range of resources to enable them to put their share ideas and experience and, therefore,
ideas into practice. encourage its members to think about those
areas of the economy which are performing
CHAPTER 4 - BACKGROUND ON SOCIAL poorly or where there are gaps in economic
ECONOMY ACTIVITY IN NORTHERN IRELAND, development which might be identified and filled
GREAT BRITAIN AND THE REPUBLIC OF by non-profit distributing organisations.
IRELAND
" An exit strategy needs to be in place when EU " Concerns over effectiveness of the Network 
funding declines and alternative sources of there is such diversity within the sector that it is
funding considered. difficult to create an effective mechanism as it is
currently operating.
" Proposal that the social economy be regularly
addressed at the British-Irish Council and the " A network can spark new ideas, which are
North-South Ministerial Council. tangential or different from those successful
ideas which have been developed before.
" Use existing networks/partnerships established
by the sector throughout the UK, Republic of " An opportunity was missed to develop a real
Ireland and the EU, to promote opportunities for partnership by including the sector directly on
the sector and best practice. the IDSG.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 45
" Recommend that there should be regular " Increased linkages to LSPs will assist in
exchanges of information/updates from the IDSG developing awareness of the potential of the
to the Social Economy Network. sector.
" Creation of Inter-Departmental Steering Group " Benefits of Social Economy need to be
applauded as the economy is not the sole marketed.
responsibility of DETI but something which all
Departments make a contribution to. " Awareness raising to include active engagement
with District Councils.
" IDSG has much potential in providing leadership
and progress on this cross-departmental policy. " Social Auditing very important.
" Important that the Social Economy Forum is the " A framework within which social enterprises can
place of key debate on the social economy and be benchmarked would be useful.
a focus for breaking down barriers to
development, cutting bureaucracy and acting as " Need to focus on the education of young people
an enabler and champion of social enterprise. and their future role in the social economy.
CHAPTER 6: OBJECTIVE 1  TO INCREASE CHAPTER 6: OBJECTIVE 2  DEVELOP THE
AWARENESS OF THE SECTOR AND ESTABLISH SECTOR AND DEVELOP ITS BUSINESS
ITS VALUE TO THE ECONOMY STRENGTH
" NI participation in UK-wide mapping and scoping " Address needs of co-operatives in Finance
study welcomed. Study.
" Deliver a structured programme of visits to " Need exit strategy in place for when EU funding
social economy enterprises for senior managers declines.
in all Departments.
" Need to address funding of core activities of the
" Define outcomes and measure impact of sector to support sustainability.
awareness raising campaign.
" Need for guidance to be given by Government to
" Promote awareness of joint working between the funders, particularly LSPs, on how to support the
sector and Government Departments. sector.
Page 46
" Need central directory/guidance for information " Need to recognise existing sectoral business
on financial products. support and training work done to date.
" Consider the development of Community " Proposed NI Social Enterprise Development
Investment Funds. Programme should not focus only on existing
social enterprises.
" Need for knowledge and expertise in delivering
social enterprise funds. " Social enterprise advisors and managers should
meet standards of Small Firms Enterprise
" Consider use of existing business support Development Initiative for social enterprise
ideas/sources eg Open College, Small Business support and development.
Programme.
" Train key workers in Government Departments
" Provide opportunities to enable SEEs to appoint and NDPBs on unique contribution of social
business advisors/mentors. economy and its different work practices.
" Need for dedicated management development " Government funding needed to enable Credit
programmes for the sector to be addressed by Unions to provide assistance to community
DEL. groups and businesses in the form of capacity
building, assessment of business plans, loan
" In light of the large number of co-operatives, guarantee/underwriting and developing
collaboratives, organisations and networks, infrastructure.
better definition required on aims of Objective 2
in order to avoid duplication. " Examine concept of  spin-out companies .
" Government to support and endorse sources of " Establish Futurebuilders Fund to pilot/test new
business advice in the sector. and innovative models of social enterprise
development.
" Training support required, with particular
emphasis on ICT and broadband services. " Action Points could be better achieved through
creating a network of support services for the
" Identify countrywide social enterprise champions sector.
with business experience and local credibility.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 47
" Consider the expansion of e-development, e- " The terms of reference for Government
business and the roll out of broadband Procurement Tenders need to include social
specifically to the voluntary and community and outputs in order to ensure that best value is
social economy sectors. determined on more than purely economic
grounds.
" Consider how to target/work with private sector
to create social enterprises within their own " Social economy enterprises should be provided
business. with opportunities to compete for public sector
contracts.
" Establish an online register of SEEs to help
public/private sector organisations identify " Consideration should be given to the
support through Community Involvement development of a  Social Economy Fund ,
Programmes/Corporate Social Responsibility. additional to mainstream Departmental funding,
to allow Government to proactively identify and
CHAPTER 6: OBJECTIVE 3  CREATE A include appropriate social economy initiatives in
SUPPORTIVE, ENABLING ENVIRONMENT the delivery of public services.
" Any legislative proposals on CIC and Credit
Unions should be coupled with an education " Set targets for lifting social enterprises into the
programme to demystify the legal process. public procurement arena.
" Actions relating to charity legislation and " An online procurement portal should be
community companies need to be expanded to developed, where all procurement possibilities
include discrimination policies. are advertised and tenders invited.
" As part of the proposed review of charities " Need for central Government to provide an
legislation there is a need for a registration incentive to social economy enterprises to
system and a Charities Commission in NI. rationalise services and reduce duplication in
order to fully exploit procurement opportunities.
" A joint Government/Voluntary sector forum
should be involved in the charities review. " Encourage direct Departmental engagement
with Local Government on procurement as it
represents a significant opportunity for the
sector.
Page 48
" Need to explore innovative methods of involving necessary to ensure barriers are overcome and
the social economy in childcare, perhaps with if necessary funding should be available to
financial support from the private sector. reduce identified barriers.
" Need for close co-operation between the Social " Public Procurement should be used for equality
Economy Network and Government on the objectives and must be compliant with Section
Review of Childcare Policy and Care in the 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.
Community Strategy.
" Need to ensure that the development of the
CHAPTER 7 - MONITORING PROGRESS AND sector can be linked to other government
EVALUATION initiatives in relation to inclusion, Section 75,
" Social Audit should be included as part of any Equality, New TSN, Human Rights etc.
impact assessment and consider use of social
auditing framework to measure Strategy by way " Alternative formats of the complete document
of example to Departments/Social Economy should be made available on request.
Enterprises.
" Communication Plan to include reference to the
" Need to improve robustness of evaluation of the development of the social economy among
Strategy s aims and objectives and include the communities of interest, particularly people with
other structures (Social Economy Agency, Social disabilities.
Economy Network, Inter Departmental Steering
Group and Social Economy Forum).
" Essential to communicate outcomes of
monitoring and evaluation to those involved in
social economy activity.
" End users should be more involved in the
monitoring and evaluation process.
ANNEX E  EQUALITY ASPECTS
" Important that as sector develops the promotion
of equality of opportunity is a central
consideration. Positive action measures may be
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 49
Annex B
Responses Received to  Developing a
Successful Social Economy (Jan-May 2004)
Fosec Irish League of Credit Unions
Braniff Associates Community Foundation for NI
Antrim Borough Strategy Partnership Heritage Lottery Fund
Business in the Community Alliance Party of NI
University of Ulster DCAL
BMG Associates LEDCOM
Institute of Directors Craigavon Borough Council
South Belfast Partnership Enterprise NI
NI Co-operative Forum Belfast LSP
Consultancy Mentoring Works
Northern Ireland Federation of Housing
Associations
Northern Ireland Pre School Playgroup Association
(NIPPA)
Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action
(NICVA)
Ulster Provident Housing Association
Ards Borough Council
West Belfast Economic Forum
Coleraine Borough Council
General Consumer Council for NI
Creggan Enterprises Ltd
ROMAL
Ulster Agricultural Organisation Society Ltd
Antrim Borough Council
Fermanagh Trust
The Equality Commission for NI
Social Economy Network
Social Economy Agency
Disability Action
North Down LSP
Londonderry Chamber of Commerce
Rural Community Network
Economic Research Institute of NI
Page 50
Annex C
Social Economy Agency s Priority Areas for
Action as Network Co-ordinating Agent
Facilitate the establishment of an inclusive Social Establish a research capability to assess and
Economy Network and, in particular, to: identify new opportunities for increased social
enterprise activity in both private and public
" agree with funding bodies a draft constitution services;
and appropriate operational/organisational
procedures to be subsequently endorsed by the Promote beneficial partnership arrangements
Network; between the Network and similar organisations in
" establish and develop the Network through pro- Great Britain, Republic of Ireland and mainland
active recruitment of members; Europe; and
" service the Network s organisational/business
requirements (preparation of papers/reports etc, Establish and maintain a dedicated social
for discussion; establishment of output targets; enterprise resource centre/website for the sector,
convening of meetings, agendas etc); including a database of best practice social
" service steering group/sub-regional enterprise initiatives, and details of sources of
networks/working groups as required; and information on training, educational, technical,
" disseminate relevant information to members of management and financial support.
the Network.
Promote the work of the Network, the Social
Economy Forum ( the Forum ) and the benefits of
social enterprise throughout Northern Ireland,
particularly in areas of under investment and
economic deprivation, and through awareness
programmes targeted at, and in conjunction with,
in particular, Invest NI s Community Business Start-
Up Programme delivery consortium, Local Strategy
Partnerships and Enterprise NI;
Contribute to the identification and better
understanding of social enterprise policy issues
and promote the development of new appropriate
policy responses by the sector and/or Government
Departments and their Agencies etc;
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 51
Annex D
Summary of Objective, Role and Structure of
the Social Economy Network
OBJECTIVE between organisations to achieve new synergies
The main purpose of the Social Economy Network and, where required, clarify roles and
will be to: responsibilities;
" encouraging and supporting co-operation and
" develop and articulate the views of its members collaboration between organisations in Northern
on social enterprise issues; Ireland promoting social enterprise initiatives;
" identify social enterprise sector and/or " strengthening the sector by collaborating with
Government action which will stimulate or which other stakeholders in devising local strategies
may have the potential to stimulate the local which will complement existing strategies (for
social economy and maximise its potential; example, LSP, LEADER +, Network Resource
" provide a channel for social enterprise sector Rural Tourism and the Rural Development
input into policy development and any Programme) and which will strengthen the sector
consequential agreed programmes of action at a sub-regional level within Northern Ireland;
arising; and " organising seminars, conferences and functions
" through a Steering Committee, drawn from and as appropriate; and
fully representative of the membership, act on " working closely with the Network Co-ordinating
behalf of the Network, represent the Network on Agent by contributing to and assisting with the
the Social Economy Forum. The Forum will development of appropriate work programmes to
consist of the Network Steering Group and the promote social enterprise.
Inter-Departmental Steering Group on the Social
Economy and will be chaired by the DETI Minister
(and DSD Minister); the Forum is expected to
meet not more than twice a year.
ROLE
The role of the Social Economy Network, facilitated
by Network Co-ordinating Agent staff, will include
the following:
" contributing to the analysis of social/enterprise
policy issues and the development of appropriate
policy responses;
" fostering, supporting and encouraging exchange
of experience, information and knowledge
Page 52
Social Economy Network Structure
Network Members
NETWORK STEERING GROUP
OPEN COMMITTEES
LEGAL AND STRATEGY AND EDUCATION AND
RESEARCH
FINANCIAL STRUCTURE ENTERPRISE
" Mapping Study " Review Current " Structure of " Social Economy
Legislation Network Business Supports
" Assets of Sector
" Review Fiscal " Strategy of " Public
" Social Auditing
Initiatives Network Procurement
" Models of Best
" Review Charity Law " Marketing and " Professional
Practice
Awareness Raising Standards
" Examine
" Industrial Clusters
of the Sector
Community " Training Needs
Interest Groups " Network
" Training Support
Representation
" Examine Credit Available
Union and IPS " Representation to " Links with
other Networks Education Sector
NETWORK REPRESENTATIVE INTERDEPARTMENTAL
SOCIAL ECONOMY FORUM
GROUP STEERING GROUP
JOINT WORKING GROUPS
BUSINESS
MAPPNG PROCUREMENT FINANCE
SUPPORTS
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 53
Annex E
Terms of Reference for Social Economy Inter-
Departmental Steering Group (IDSG)
BACKGROUND Members will represent their Department and will
In November 2001, the Executive agreed to the ensure that input to IDSG activity covers all
recommendation that an Inter-Departmental appropriate Departmental/NDPB areas.
Steering Group (IDSG), to be led by DETI, should
be formed to develop a more integrated approach Meetings, chaired by a member of DETI Senior Civil
to the social economy. Service with responsibility for Social Economy Unit,
will take place on a quarterly basis, with SEU
TERMS OF REFERENCE providing the secretariat.
All Departments (and associated Agencies/Non-
Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs)) to review IDSG members to attend and contribute to the
their programmes and policies to: Social Economy Forum, which will agree a work
programme to be carried forward by the IDSG, the
" Identify their impact (positive and negative) on Social Economy Network and the two working
the social economy; together.
" Bring forward proposals to develop their support
structures and remove any obstacles; The Special EU Programmes Body will have
" Exchange ideas and information; observer status on the IDSG.
" Avoid duplication and maximise resources; and
" Contribute to the development and
implementation of a more integrated, strategic
approach to the social economy.
Page 54
Annex F
Terms of Reference for the Social Economy
Forum
The following terms of reference have been activity, for example the work of the Economic
endorsed by the first meeting of the Social Development Forum.
Economy Forum in June 2003.
Representation  The Social Economy Forum will
SOCIAL ECONOMY FORUM comprise equal representation from the social
The Social Economy Forum will be a joint meeting economy sector, through the Social Economy
of representatives from the Social Economy Network, and Government, through the Inter
Network and the Inter-Departmental Steering Departmental Steering Group. Total membership
Group, chaired by the DETI Minister, in close co- should not normally exceed 26 (including Social
operation with the DSD Minister. Economy Unit and Social Economy Agency
representation but excluding Minister/s).
It will:
The Forum will normally meet twice a year although
" Provide a policy platform in which to exchange further meetings can be called as and when
information and views between the Social necessary.
Economy sector and the Public sector;
" Seek to achieve a shared approach in the Social Economy Unit and the Social Economy
implementation of policies by establishing and Agency will jointly provide Executive/Secretariat
encouraging stronger social economy/public support for the Forum.
sector working relationships at all levels;
" Agree an annual work programme to be carried These Terms of Reference will be reviewed after 12
forward by the IDSG, the Social Economy months at the third meeting of the Social Economy
Network and the two working together; and Forum.
receive and review progress reports on these
issues at subsequent meetings; and
" Consider, approve and publish an annual report
(to be prepared by the Secretariat) on key
developments on the Social Economy in
Northern Ireland. This will facilitate monitoring
and evaluation of social economy policy in NI
and help improve public understanding of the
social economy. Such reports will also feed into
broader social and policy economic development
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 55
Annex G
Equality Aspects
BACKGROUND subject to an EQIA during the period 2005-2009.
Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998, This is therefore not an EQIA but an initial equality
which came into force on 1 January 2000, states: statement, pending further work and research as
this Strategic Plan is implemented.
A public authority shall in carrying out its functions
relating to Northern Ireland, have due regard to the CONSIDERATION OF AVAILABLE DATA AND
need to promote equality of opportunity; RESEARCH
Accurate and current statistics on the size and
(a) between persons of different religious belief, scale etc of the social economy are not currently
political opinion, racial group, age, marital available. While some individual LSPs have
status or sexual orientation; initiated mapping studies for their areas, definitions
and terms of reference have varied from one LSP
(b) between men and women generally; to another and have confirmed the need for a
consistent approach. As noted in the Action Plan,
(c) between persons with a disability and persons it will be important to have robust baseline
without; and statistics and action to address this is outlined in
Objective 1.
(d) between persons with dependants and
persons without. This UK wide detailed analysis of the sector will
focus on capturing key economic data on a core
Without prejudice to its obligations above, a public group of SEE s, for example, number of social
authority shall, in carrying out its functions relating economy enterprises; number of employees (full
to Northern Ireland, have regard to the desirability time/part time); geographical location of enterprise
of promoting good relations between persons of by postcode (thereby allowing the Government s
different religious belief, political opinion or racial objectives to tackle Poverty and Disadvantage to
group. be identified); core trading activity and turnover.
The Joint Working Group on Mapping and Scoping
The DETI revised Equality Scheme published in the sector will also consider the feasibility of
June 2003 sets out the Department s commitment adding further data fields to address Section 75
to the fulfilment of its obligations on the promotion groups. It will, however, be important to consider
of equality amongst Section 75 groups and good the potential benefits of this additional data
relations between persons of different religious against the possible burden on social economy
belief, political opinion or racial group. It states enterprises themselves, many of them small in
that the overall social economy policy will be size, and their ability and willingness to provide this
Page 56
information. Further guidance is awaited from the " Create income, employment and services for the
Equality Commission on the issue of gathering population at large and particularly for
information on certain Section 75 groups ie disadvantaged people, groups and for
political opinion and sexual orientation and this will disadvantaged areas;
be taken into account when available. " provide routes to mainstream employment;
" define and promote the needs of local
As regards this first NI wide analysis of the sector, communities;
it may therefore be appropriate to focus initially on " operate with innovation and creativity to meet
the key data and build on this baseline in local needs and take advantage of opportunities;
subsequent exercises, supplemented by local data. " draw on volunteers, thereby increasing active
citizenship and voluntary donations;
The Action Plan for 2004/05 of this Strategic Plan " contribute to social capital;
includes specific actions and programmes focused " enable a high proportion of income to circulate
on the social economy by Departments/Agencies, within the local community, facilitating the
for example, Invest NI s Community Business Start accumulation of wealth in the area; and
Up Programme. These are monitored across " provide channel for public funds for
Section 75 groups as far as possible. Likewise, disadvantaged areas and communities.
the activities of the LSPs under Measures 3.1 and
3.2 of Peace II for social economy activity are The social economy, by its very characteristics will
subject to Section 75 monitoring requirements. impact positively on disadvantaged individuals who
Results of these monitoring activities will be would, in some cases, be considered or consider
considered as part of the overall data collection themselves to be removed from the mainstream
process. labour market and who may find it more difficult to
obtain employment or face social or financial
ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS exclusion. For example, Intermediate Labour
As noted above there is no current statistical Markets and their equivalents can provide training
information on which to base assessment of and work experience for the long-term unemployed
impact of the overall approach across the Section thereby enhancing their employability; people with
75 Groups. It is, however, possible to make disabilities can find employment in social firms;
general assessments, at this stage, about the Credit Unions and Industrial and Provident
impact of the social economy and therefore a Societies including Housing Associations can help
more integrated approach to its development, as those who are socially or financially excluded;
regards equality and New TSN considerations. As community businesses, Local Enterprise Agencies
noted in Chapter 3  Social Economy in Northern and Co-operatives can create and maintain jobs
Ireland  the sector can: and services within local economies.
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 57
CONCLUSION
It is considered that the social economy and the
implementation of this Strategic Plan will have a
positive impact on Section 75 Groups and on
disadvantaged individuals and areas. Further data
and research on its impact will be undertaken
during the next three years in conjunction with the
sector and as part of the Monitoring and
Evaluation Plan to support the scheduled Equality
Impact Assessment, and also Government s Anti-
Poverty strategy.
Page 58
Annex H
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Corporate Plan 2002-05  www.detini.gov.uk A Strategy for Success -
www.dti.gov.uk/socialenterprise/documenta.pdf
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www.dsdni.gov.uk/publications/documents/Partners
_for_Change.pdf Northern Ireland Federation of Housing
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Document on Funding for the Voluntary and www.nifha.org/nicore.pdf
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Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Developing a Successful Social Economy - NI Government s Strategic Plan 2004-07 Page 59
Notes
ISBN 1-902885-03-1
Crown Copyright
September 2004
Alternative formats including
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Social Economy Unit E: [e-mail]
Department of Enterprise, T: (028) 90 529369
audio cassette or in minority
Trade and Investment F: (028) 90 529550
ethnic languages are
Netherleigh Textphone: (028) 90 529304
Massey House www.socialeconomy.detini.gov.uk available on request.
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