micro-enterprise | Community Catalysts

Just discovered tht RTs from @ndtimarc aren't showing on my feed. Wonder if they are not alone. Sorry if I've missed thanking anyone else :/

micro-enterprise

Community Catalysts’s staff have over 20 years’ experience of very small scale non-traditional models of care and support. We call these small services micro-enterprises and the people who run them micro-providers.

We are passionate about bringing choice to people of high quality, small scale local services, wherever they live. We combine a practical approach with an understanding of how our work links with government strategy and policy. We can do a lot with very little – just like the people we work with.

What defines a micro-enterprise?

Micro-enterprises are very small (typically less than 5 workers) local enterprises that provide a range of social and health care, supported, housing and leisure services. These include services that help people gain a new skill or make new friends, to lead a healthy life or enjoy a leisure activity. They are offered by a wide range of people and organisations in the community, including people who themselves need some support and family carers. They also help people to develop and use their social capital, and form a vital part of a diverse local market.

why are they important?

Micro-providers transform the choices available to people needing support and services, and help them make good use of their money by providing services on a paid, barter or voluntary basis. They also provide an important source of local employment and demonstrate entrepreneurialism, innovation and creativity. What’s more, micro providers help public bodies meet performance and target indicators.

why are they under threat?

• They can be hard to identify and engage
• They face growing regulatory, legislative and other barriers
• In most areas their numbers are falling

see micro-enterprise in action

This video features Space Inclusive; a Nottingham based micro-enterprise that is committed to improving the lives and prospects of people with learning disabilities by offering appropriate and aspirational opportunities.

For more information contact us on 01423 790126.