CSEP Launch
13th March 2005
On 1 st March 2005 we launched CSEP (Community and Social Enterprise Partnership) at the Danum Hotel. The event was attended by over 200 people from social enterprises, voluntary and community groups, local authorities, PCTs, funders, business agencies, consultants and anyone else interested in the Social economy with in the borough. Commitment and enthusiasm to see the success of CSEP was in abundance!
Here is a summary of the findings arising from discussion groups exploring just what is needed to stimulate and grow social economy activity in Doncaster:
Networks, Communication, Sharing Information
The need to build strong networks, creating links both within the sector and with service providers and the statutory and private sectors. Exchanging information, learning from one another, sharing best practice.
Professional Support, Mentoring
The need for direct support from skilled professionals, who are able to communicate and share their skills.
General Support, Information & Advice – across a range of issues and challenges
Readily accessible support, information and advice – by means such as:> a phone line > a web site > a one-stop shop.
Staff Skills and Training – including management and business skills
The need to develop more business and enterprise-related skills. This covers both training and developing existing staff – including volunteers – and recruiting new staff with the skills mix needed.
Trading Links, Development of Market
Identifying markets, raising the organisations profile in the market, establishing a network of business contacts.
Strategy; Planning; Business Planning
An area where help, support, advice was seen as particularly needed in moving towards sustainability.
