Social economy sector hits the mark

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has launched the new Social Economy Enterprise (SEE) Strategy for Northern Ireland, in Irvinestown Co Fermanagh today.

The strategy was the result of consultation with a wide variety of groups in the private, public and voluntary sectors. It sets out a range of actions designed to support and strengthen SEEs, enabling them to contribute to the overall sustainability of the sector and ultimately the local economy.

The Minister launched the strategy during a visit to Irvinestown Trustee Enterprise Company (ITEC). Outlining the Executive’s continued support for the sector, Arlene Foster said: “This strategy aims to ensure that the social economy sector is valued, encouraged and supported. The Executive values the distinctive role played by Social Economy Enterprises and it has been working, in partnership with key stakeholders, to further develop the sector.

“Building on what has already been achieved, the new strategy aims to increase awareness of the social economy sector; develop its business strength and provide a supportive environment in which it can prosper. Social Economy Enterprises make a real difference to people’s lives particularly in terms of their impact on local communities and areas of economic disadvantage.”

The Minister also welcomed the news that ITEC and ARC Healthy Living Centre Ltd (ARC) have been awarded the Social Enterprise Mark which identifies them as trading for social and environmental purposes.

Jane Reihill ITEC Chairperson said: “We’re really proud to have been awarded the Social Enterprise Mark. Both ARC and ITEC are absolutely committed to supporting sustainable businesses and consequently helping local communities to thrive and prosper”.

During the visit the Minister also welcomed the Mid Ulster Community Arts Trust as the 150th member of the Social Economy Network (SEN), the representative body of the sector.

Audrey Murray, SEN Chair said: “We are particularly delighted to welcome the Mid Ulster Community Arts Trust as our 150th member. The Trust offers workshops and classes in art, drama and dance in a newly refurbished community and arts centre which also boasts an auditorium.”

Notes to editors:

1. A social enterprise is a business with primary social objectives whose surpluses are re-invested, for that purpose, in the business or in the community rather than being driven by the need to maximise profit for shareholders or owners.
2. ITEC is a non-profit taking company limited by guarantee, incorporated in 1994. ITEC aims to increase economic development and employment opportunities in the town of Irvinestown and surrounding hinterland by active community participation in job creation and the promotion and creation of further job opportunities to target and address social need and improve the conditions of community life.
3. The ARC Centre, located in Irvinestown, seeks to promote the holistic health care needs of a rural population addressing physical, psychological, social, educational, environmental and economic factors and ensuring accessibility of services through rural transport initiatives and childcare provision.
4. The Social Economy Network (NI) Ltd (SEN) is the representative body of the Northern Ireland social economy sector. The SEN is a membership-based organisation that draws its membership from Social Economy organisations throughout Northern Ireland. The Network seeks to build, support and strengthen the Social Economy sector.
5. The Social Enterprise Mark was launched nationally in February at Voice10, the Social Enterprise Coalition’s national conference. The Mark identifies businesses which meet defined criteria for social enterprise, and consumers will recognise that businesses displaying the Mark are trading to benefit people and planet. The Mark is administered by a joint venture set up between the Social Enterprise Coalition, the national body for social enterprise, and RISE, the social enterprise regional network for the South West of England.
6. Mid Ulster Community Arts Trust is located in Carrickmore, County Tyrone and offers workshops and classes in art, drama and dance in a newly refurbished community and arts centre which also boasts an auditorium.
7. For more information visit the DETI website
8. For media enquiries, please contact DETI Press Office on 028 9052 9297. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.