From 2023 to 2026, Community Catalysts delivered a community micro-enterprise project in partnership with Bath and North East Somerset Council, helping to grow a strong local network of nearly 50 small providers.
Together, these enterprises now deliver 635 hours of care and support each week to 290 local people. The project has created 80 local jobs and significantly increased choice for people looking for flexible, relationship-based support close to home. Support includes personal care, help at home, companionship and meal preparation, alongside more specialised offers that build confidence, wellbeing and connection in community settings.
The project supported micro-enterprises through Community Catalysts’ proven Development Programme, underpinned by our Doing It Right Standards and practical advice framework. This gave enterprise leaders structured support with areas such as legal compliance, risk and quality management, helping them build services that are sustainable, responsive and rooted in their communities. The project also strengthened local infrastructure through partnership working, promotion, workshops and the Small Good Stuff directory, making it easier for practitioners and local people to connect with high-quality community-based support options.
The project has now transferred to West of England Rural Network (WERN), a committed partner throughout the programme and an excellent fit for its next phase. Community Catalysts will continue to provide strategic support. WERN already has deep roots in local communities through work including its long-established Village Agents service, which has built trusted relationships with local people and brings strong insight into the circumstances and aspirations of those who may be seeking help or care. This enables WERN to connect people with the micro-enterprise network in practical and trusted ways. Our former Catalyst, Michael Auton, has transferred to WERN and now leads the work there, ensuring strong continuity. Community Catalysts continues to provide project tools, the community micro-enterprise advice framework, and wider support informed by our long-term national experience of developing community micro-enterprise projects.