social enterprise

This article is provided courtesy of the news feed at http://www.newstartmag.co.uk/news

Merton will this week launch its Low Carbon Zone with the first in a series of advice surgeries for residents. The Wandle Valley Low Carbon Zone is made up of 1,000 properties across 12 streets, including schools, businesses and community groups. Two ‘green doctors’ have also been recruited to provide free energy saving equipment and advice to homeowners.

Public spending cuts would lead to heavy job losses for women and substantially reduce their income in retirement, according to a TUC report. It warns female employment would be hit hardest as approximately four in ten women work in public sector occupations, compared with less than a fifth of men.

Vital Regeneration has received a Microsoft Britain Works grant. The grant, to promote innovation, digital learning and employment opportunities within socially excluded communities in Westminster, will help the London charity fund a makeover of a digital learning centre and provide state-of-the art IT facilities to the local community.

Public awareness of social enterprises in Scotland has risen by 11% in six months, according to a Mori poll. Commissioned by the Scottish Social Enterprise Coalition, the findings revealed 65% know about the sector and the majority want the UK government to do more to encourage investment in social enterprises.

Property developer Places for People has instructed Birmingham law firm Shakespeare Putsman to advise on the creation of two new communities. Once completed, Brooklands in Milton Keynes will provide a new 2,500 home community including three new schools, offices, shops and leisure facilities. The Marlborough Park development in Swindon will comprise 616 homes with a small local commercial centre.

Businesses are increasingly aware of the benefits of adopting environmental strategies, according to EEF’s latest research. The manufacturing organisation’s survey discovered ‘engagement and commitment’ from businesses and described the notion of the environmental agenda detracting from profitability as ‘outmoded’.

Entries are now open for this year’s Prime Minister’s Better Public Building Award recognising new buildings, places and spaces that improve public service delivery and offer a sense of identity and community. Entrants will be judged on areas including economic and social value and sustainability. The closing date is 15 April.