Economic climate has opportunities
Released 06/11/2008
Tightening economy opens opportunity for social enterprises
The current economic crisis may provide social enterprises the chance to make inroads in health and social care delivery, according to a survey.
Social enterprises believe that the current drive for cost effectiveness may open up opportunities for them that have so far eluded them.
The survey of 88 commissioning and provider organisations found that social enterprise had a role in offering greater choice, but suggested ambivalence among commissioners.
Mark Johnson, MD of TPPlaw who conducted the survey said: "Our survey shows that commissioners do believe that social enterprises have a valuable role to play in modernising health and social care services. But there is a gap in understanding and confidence.
"Social enterprises need to market themselves better, explain their proposition and benefits to commissioners more effectively and shout about their successes."
Of providers, 68% expected to be doing more business with commissioners in the coming year, citing as the main drivers fiscal belt-tightening, a search for efficiencies, flexibility and innovation and a belief among commissioners that social enterprises offered value.