Local Government in Cumbria is changing and from 1st April 2023, there will be two new Unitary Authorities.
In addition to our normal AGM proceedings, you will be able to hear from Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council and from Cllr Virginia Taylor, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Communities and Localities in Westmorland & Furness. Each will talk about their council’s hopes and aspirations for residents and how social enterprises can support these.
Delegates will also hear from Ben Helsop, Programme Manager and learn about the services offered by the new British Library Business & Intellectual Property Centres, which are available through the local library services and which provide support and advice to business owners, entrepreneurs, inventors and people with a business idea.
Access to Finance can often be tricky for social entrepreneurs, and so delegates will also hear from Craig Pennington, Finance Manager with the Francis C Scott Trust, whose Social Investment Fund offers repayable finance available to charities and social enterprises, thereby promoting sustainability in the sector.
CSEP shall also be thanking Cumbria County Council for its support over many years. We shall review the past and look forward to how the Partnership might support your social enterprise now and in the future.
Hot & Cold refreshments will be available throughout as well as a buffet lunch after the meeting.
We look forward to welcoming you in person, if you are unable to attend in person, an online option will be available.