1. 18th January 2012
Informer
NOTE: All items are hyperlinked
Selnet News Job Opportunity
 One-to-one support and advice for your  N-compass NW Ltd Operations Director
business ACT NOW
Member News
Events & Conferences
 CICS and Co-ops A Conference  Breathe's Shelley Perry nominated for 2 Awards at
Wednesday 22 February, Burnley The National Diversity Awards 2012 Vote for Shelley
 NCVO Annual Conference 2012 Sector News
Monday 5 March, London
 A promising year for CICs
 Preston Guild 2012 "Leap into the Guild"
event Wednesday February 29, Preston  Deloitte and the Social Business Sector
Deloitte Social Innovation Pioneers
 Procurex National 2012
 Female Entrepreneur Association
The Procurement Exhibition An opportunity to be featured in a book in 2012…
 The Social Enterprise Exchange UPDATE  Industrial and Provident Societies Payment of interest
Tuesday March 27, Glasgow on share capital
Funding & Opportunities  Key Changes to the Big Lottery Fund’s Reaching
Communities Buildings Fund
 £50m investment to create lasting legacy for
Lancashire  Launch of International Year of Co-operatives
 Report Proposes Business Subsidies for Voluntary
 Comic Relief Grants Programme for Work
Older People
 Skoll Awards for Social Entrepreneurship
 Office of the Civil Society Local Intelligence  Spanish Architect looking for opportunity in a
Team NW Update Lancashire workplace
1. £150 million Big Society 'endowment for  The Big Life Group - Facilities management
the nation' launched
2. The Social Action Fund Round Two  The Community Room - St Mary's CE Primary, Burnley
opened on 9 January 2012
3. NAO report into Central Government’s Surveys
Implementation of the National
Compact  Joint Government and Big Lottery Fund survey
4. National Citizens Service Delivery
Partners 2012 by Local Authority Area Training & Workshops
 The Community Grants Programme  Groundwork Pennine Lacashire
Regional Briefings February Training Courses
 Personalise It! Training opportunities for
unemployed, disabled people and volunteers

2. One-to-one support and advice for
your business
If you want help with forward planning, developing ideas or reviewing where
your organisation is in today’s difficult environment Selnet can help but you
must act now!!!
We are now in the final quarter of our ERDF Networking and Communication programme which Selnet
have successfully delivered since 2009. The programme, which this year is joint funded through ERDF and
Selnet, offers up to 15 hours of business advice.
Our team of qualified advisors can offer a tailored package of development advice, to suit your social
enterprise. They can help you look at what your organisation needs, and work with you on a plan of
action. This could be help writing a business plan, looking at alternative income streams, perhaps
tendering or investment readiness.
Our advisors are all experienced social enterprise practitioners, who are qualified and accredited.
Between them they have a range of specialisms from marketing to legal, community groups to the health
sector.
They have experience of working with social enterprises whatever the legal structure, from
unincorporated group to company limited by guarantee, CIC to Co-op. We are confident that we have an
advisor to suit your needs.
If your organisation is established, but needs a little extra help to develop and grow, then get in touch.
There are a limited number available and all work much be completed by March 31st 2012.
There are eligibility criteria, the main ones being that you are a social enterprise, based in Lancashire, and
that you haven’t previously received support under this programme.
If you want to start the New Year with a step up, and you think the programme could be for you, contact
Sarah Clubb, Selnet’s project officer, on 01772 200690 or sarah@selnet-uk.com.
Back to top

3. CICS and Co-ops
A Conference
An event by Selnet’s Pennine Lancashire Social Enterprise Hub
When:- Wednesday 22nd February 2012. 9.30 for 10.00 am. until 4pm
Where:- Burnley Town Hall. Manchester Road Burnley BB11 9SA.
The Registrar of Community Interest Companies, Sara Burgess, will give the keynote speech on ‘CICs past,
present and future’.
Agenda
9.30am Registration. Drinks.
10.00 Welcome. Housekeeping. Ann Marie Wrigley
10.05 Opening Remarks Burnley BC officer/member
10.15 Keynote Speech. ‘CIC's, past present and Sara Burgess, CIC Regulator
10.40 f t and As
Qs ’
11.00 Workshop 1.
12.00 Workshop 2.
1.00 Lunch
1.35 Workshop 3
2.35 Co-ops and public services. Some case studies Dave Hollins
as examples.
2.50 Plenary. The benefits of being a CIC. 3 Local CICs
3.05 Qs and As Panel of presenters workshop
leaders and CICs
4pm Conference ends.
Workshops – Each person may attend 3. When booking please rank in order of preference. We will try to
ensure as many people as possible get their first three preferences.

4. 1. 'CIC's and the Co-operative Values & Principles' Linda Barlow from Co-operatives UK will
provide an insight into the Co-operatives UK model Articles for a CIC and will explore, through
case studies, how co-operative CICs demonstrate the Co-operative Values & Principles in
practice.
2. Community Share Issues. Dave Hollings from Co-operative and Mutual Solutions Ltd. describes
how Industrial and Provident Societies raise funds through Community Shares.
3. Raising and Managing finance in a CIC. – Mark Heaton KM Accountants.
4. Article 6. Helping each other to new business. Co-ops North West favourite networking
session. The sixth article of the International Principles of Co-operation states that Co-ops
support Co-ops. This alternative to speed networking was developed by Sion Wellans of
Calverts. Each participant describes the leads they need to grow their business and each tries
to help the others to make those leads.
Lunch – Choose from Meat and Potato pie or Mixed Vegetable Casserole. There will also be fresh fruit.
Two types of Ticket
• Free – for social enterprises and Selnet Associates (maximum 2 per organisation).
• £15 – others
Please note if you book and do not turn up, or cancel with less than 48 hours notice you will be charged a
£20 administration fee.
There will be plenty of opportunity to network and each social enterprise attending will be invited to bring
along and display an A4 ‘poster’ selling their services and a reasonable number of leaflets.
Who should come? Existing Community Interest Companies, those considering setting up a CIC, those who
advise others about incorporation………..
Booking is now open!
Go to www.surveymonkey.com/s/CICSandCoOps
This event is hosted by New Era, who administer the Pennine Social Enterprise Hub on behalf of Selnet. Please contact
sarah@selnet-uk.com with any queries.
Back to top

5. Bookings are now open for the NCVO Annual Conference, which is taking place at the Brewery in central London.
Moving forward: solutions and inspiration
With year two of the public funding cuts close approaching we will be looking at how we can help the sector move forward by
providing you with practical skills, resources and support to help your organisation to continue to move forward in an uncertain
future.
Come and move forward with us
After a year with substantial funding cuts combined with increased demand for services provided by charities it’s time to come
together and find practical solutions to do more for ourselves. Join NCVO for a conference that will reinvigorate and inspire you
and your staff to move forward in these challenging times.
Why attend? You’ll get:
• Practical solutions and advice from expert-led workshops designed specifically for not-for-profit leaders
• Inspirational keynote speakers with extensive knowledge and expertise
• Unrivalled networking opportunities to share experiences with and learn from your sector colleagues
• Money saving offers at our exhibition space where you will find ways to do more for less.
'An excellent event which again lived up to high expectations.'
Dr Ute Navidi, London Play
'A wide cross-section of the third sector and diversity of individuals present, so very good networking.'
Linda Laurance, Linda Laurance & Associates
Find out more
• Read the full programme
• Find out about our keynote speakers
• See the full range of workshops on offer
• Find out about our exhibitors and networking opportunities
• Book a place at our Annual Dinner following the conference
• Find out more about delegate fees (frozen at 2009 conference prices)
• Find out how to get to the conference location in central London
If you have any queries about this event please email susan.beckett@ncvo-vol.org.uk or call 020 7520 3153.
Book now
Book your place online.
Back to top

6. Meet the Buyers
Leap into the Guild 2012
The Preston Guild 2012 is set to be the biggest opportunity for the economy
of Preston of the past 20 years.
The City's Guild celebrations are set to profile Preston to millions of people
across the UK and indeed further afield.
All eyes will be on the Trades Procession which will open the Guild week on Saturday 1st September,2012.
It is a key part of the Guild programme.
Tens of thousands of people are expected to line the procession routes to watch this colourful spectacle.
More than 200 organisations are registered as participants across all four processions that will take place.
We now need Product and Service providers to put themselves forward and help support the event.
Key Products & Services Likely To Be Required
• Transport (flatbeds, curtain sided trucks etc)
• Insurance (public, employers liability, event insurance etc)
HGV Drivers
• Scaffolding/fencing (to form safety barrier for patrons on the floats)
• Power (generators, power options)
• Signage (banners, signs, for promotion of their company/group)
On February 29th, from 2pm - 7pm, we'll be holding a "Leap into the Guild" event in the Guild Hall to assist
those registered for the processions in procuring items/services they will need. As a provider of one of the
key services detailed above, please accept this as your invitation to come along, for FREE, to our event.
This opportunity is on a 'first come first served' basis, a maximum of 4-5 companies in each industry listed
above will be accepted to attend, don't delay in registering for this event. Should requests for places
exceed availability, priority will be given to companies located in/around Preston.
We would strongly urge you to consider offering a special discount on your services to those who attend
this event, remember your company is likely to be credited as a Guild Procession supporter in addition to
securing valuable new revenue.
Register now by emailing bid@lancschamber.co.uk to confirm you're interest and we will be in touch soon.
Don't wait; it is highly likely your competitor has been given this same opportunity.
Back to top

7. 2012 The year of public sector
procurement excellence
EDUCATE COLLABORATE INNOVATE
2012 will bring another year of challenges for the public sector procurement community and one which
will see the industry uniting to collaborate and tackle the current demands on reform and delivery.
Procurex National 2012 is the catalyst for this aim. Firmly established as the leading event in the
procurement calendar and essential for everyone within the collective government procurement
community including industry leaders, policy makers, buyers, procurement professionals, end users and
suppliers, Procurex National enables you to rise to the challenge and have an impact on change through
skills development, engagement and sharing best practice. It is vital that you attend to ensure you are
ready to meet the procurement challenge!
Our free-to-attend, two-day event will deliver a complete package to enable you to develop your professional and personal
skills. You can:
Hear from over 20 inspiring speakers in the GO Live Keynote Arena including Francis Maude MP, Minister for the Cabinet Office
& Paymaster General, and join the Live Debate on Reform vs Delivery. See the full agenda here.
Gain a wealth of new skills with over 30 free training workshops in our Skills Development Zones, saving your training budget.
See our full list of topics including procurement and legal issues here.
Book a free one-to-one consultation with experienced procurement and legal consultants in the PASS Legal Advice &
Procurement Support Zone. You can also attend free legal seminars for a flavour of the issues affecting the industry today.
Discover how to meet the demand to make necessary savings while delivering effective, efficient and excellent frontline
services by exploring our Exhibition, featuring over 120 organisations representing both current and aspiring framework
suppliers.
Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your achievements by entering the National GO Excellence in Public Procurement
Awards 2012/13. Celebrate your successes and gain industry recognition. Online entry is simple and free, see the
categories here. Deadline for entries is 27 January 2012.
Prepare yourself to meet the procurement challenge. Register free before 31 January 2012 and you will receive a FREE EU
Thresholds 2012-13 Memo Board. Attending the event on 13 & 14 March 2012 will give you the chance to win an iPad – find
out more here.
Regsiter FREE today here
Back to top

8. The Social Enterprise
Exchange!
Follow us on Twitter at #SocEntEx and get involved!
Click here to see the full version of our draft programme, including details of breakout
sessions! (up to date as of 13th December 2011)
Only a third of exhibition stands remaining!
Book your stand now if you do not want to miss the opportunity to promote your enterprise or network
with like minded people and organisations, and trade at the largest social enterprise event in the world in
2012! Exhibitor stand prices start from just £299 + VAT.
Delegates have as much to gain as exhibitors at The Social Enterprise Exchange, thanks to the
opportunities on offer to exchange business, best practice and information on a number of topical themes
including social enterprise policy, growth & replication, starting new businesses, winning business, social
investment, sub contracting and impact measurement. Book your delegate place now, prices start from as
little as £30 + VAT. There are also discounted bursary places available for small social enterprises so please
enquire if you’re interested in applying.
Broadcaster and journalist, Kirsty Wark, to lead debate on ‘good business’
Newsnight presenter, Kirsty Wark, has been confirmed to lead the ‘good business’ debate at the Social
Enterprise Exchange, where speakers will discuss how capitalism can be reinvented with social value at its
core. Speakers, to be announced in the coming weeks, will contribute to our engaging programme which
includes master classes on social investment and working with the private sector, practical workshops on
topics including sales, start-ups, spin-outs, impact measurement and export and 1:1 clinics with experts in
the field.
Bursary Places Available
We are pleased to announce that there are discounted bursary places available for small social
enterprises. We will only be issuing one bursary place per organisation. To apply for a bursary discount
please fill in the following questionnaire and your application will be judged based on criteria including
membership of Social Enterprise UK or SES, distance/time/cost involved in travelling to and from the
venue, business opportunities for and relevance of the event to applicants and benefit to others for
applicants to be at the event.

9. Living the Social Enterprise Dream
We were positively overwhelmed by the response we got when we called for social enterprises to bid to
be part of the supply chain for the event. We have already contacted those who have been successful in
securing the work for the photography, social media, delegate bags and promotional items. More
information about these social enterprise suppliers will be made available in the coming weeks. We are
excited by the breadth of the organisations we’ll be working with in Scotland, England and Wales, and are
delighted to have so many fantastic social enterprises in our supply chain!
We’ve already begun work with the catering social enterprises that will be supplying lunch on the day.
We’re working together on a variety of themes to ensure that the menus are top notch. We are hugely
impressed by the smooth partnership working we’re seeing within social enterprise!
Study Visits
We are organising an “open doors” day of study visits through the Glasgow Social Enterprise Network
(GSEN) to Glasgow social enterprises on Monday 26th March and visit programmes to Argyll and the
Highlands in the days following The Social Enterprise Exchange. Information on the Argyll Visit Programme
is now available and will cost £299 + VAT for a two day trip. To register interest and to book your place
please contact Lynsey Johnston - eventmanagement@ceis.org.uk
An International Exchange
Three Toronto social enterprises working with young people are attending The Social Enterprise Exchange.
And they will be hosting an afternoon workshop/seminar on the theme of social enterprises supporting
young people on Monday 26th March from 1pm – 4pm at KibbleWorks in Paisley - www.kibble.org. Entry is
free to Social Enterprise Exchange delegates in the youth social enterprise field. This Canadian and UK
gathering will facilitate a lively exchange of models, best practice and experiences in this highly significant
area. To register your interest please contact Lynsey.
If you’d like more information on any aspect of the event, please call Lynsey Johnston on 0141 425 2926 or
e-mail eventmanagement@ceis.org.uk
www.socialenterpriseexchange.com
Back to top

10. £50m investment
to create lasting legacy for Lancashire
Thursday, 5th January 2012
(PR12/0007)
LANCASHIRE County Council has announced a massive £50m investment in local initiatives - after
making rapid progress on reducing its management costs and receiving a huge windfall from its efforts
to protect council funds from the global financial crisis.
The council's cabinet is proposing to make the one-off investment in a series of 'legacy' projects that will
benefit local people for years to come, with a strong emphasis on improving opportunities for young
people and promoting economic growth.
The proposals include:
• A new £10m apprenticeships programme to help young people into work, supporting employers to take on
apprentices and creating further professional apprenticeships within the county council.
• An investment of £5m over five years to support the costs of young people travelling to education, employment
and training. Representatives of the Lancashire Youth Council will be invited to work with council officers to draw
up the details of the scheme.
• £10m investment in a new programme of measures to promote economic development, encouraging businesses
to grow and create jobs in Lancashire.
• £6m for the extension of the Youth Zone programme to provide young people with more activities and
opportunities to access information and guidance.
• £3m towards a new programme that will employ armed forces veterans in mentoring young people in Lancashire
secondary schools.
• £1m for refurbishing local libraries.
The remaining £15m will support four existing projects to improve the county's transport infrastructure
including the Pennine Reach public transport initiative, Rawtenstall Bus Station, the Blackpool to
Fleetwood Tramway and a scheme to alleviate traffic congestion in Broughton.
Council leader Geoff Driver said: "At a time when we have to reduce our year-on-year spending, we're
delighted to be able to announce this massive new investment and determined that it will leave a very
positive, lasting legacy.
"Young people are at the heart of our proposals because they are the future. We want them to stay and
prosper in Lancashire when they leave education and we recognise the difficult economic climate is
making that particularly hard to do at the present time.
"As well as helping them into employment, these proposals will give more young people across the county
access to activities, information and guidance through the expansion of our Youth Zone programme.

11. "We also plan to direct some of this investment into providing the right infrastructure and other
conditions that make Lancashire a good place to do business, so that employers want to relocate or
expand their operations here and create jobs for local people.
"Together with our plans to improve libraries and invest in local transport schemes, this is a package of
investment that will make a visible difference to the county over the next five years and beyond."
£10m of the £50m investment comes from the council delivering reductions in its management and
administration costs ahead of target.
The remaining £40m of the one-off cash boost is a result of the council's efforts to ensure its funds are
held as securely as possible. It invested in gilts, a type of secure bond issued by the UK government, before
other organisations began to look for alternatives to higher risk accounts that have suffered because of
the economic crisis in the Eurozone.
Phil Halsall, chief executive, explains: "We're the biggest council in the North of England and at any one
time we have a large amount of money in the bank and other investments, which we draw on to pay the
bills throughout the year.
"Two years ago we decided to bring added expertise into the organisation to help us manage those funds
so they are as secure as possible, while delivering good rates of interest.
"We shifted a lot of the council's funds into gilts and these offer such security that, in the turbulent
economic climate, they have since become very popular with other organisations looking for safer
investments.
"That has enabled the council to sell on its gilts and generate this huge one-off windfall, which can now be
pumped back into local services in Lancashire.
"Meanwhile we've moved the money we previously had invested in gilts into other investments that are
equally secure."
CC Driver added: "It's a unique situation in the council's history and the result of excellent financial
management during an unprecedented economic climate.
"In late 2009 the cabinet approved some changes to enable the council to manage its funds more wisely,
which has made this exceptional windfall possible.
"As this is a one-off windfall it cannot account for the long-term savings we have to make, although the
fact it comes at such a challenging time obviously makes the availability of these funds particularly
welcome."
The news comes during the first year of a three year plan that will see the county council reduce its annual
budget by nearly £180m.
Back to top

12. New Comic Relief
Grants Programme for Older People
Comic Relief have announced a new grants programme for 2012 to help older people cope with the
challenges of the particularly harsh financial climate.
The programme will be aimed at supporting older people (65+) to build their knowledge and skills to
manage their money more effectively; ensure access to good, independent financial advice; guard against
financial scams and abuse; and cope better with cold homes.
Comic Relief are especially interested in how older people can be supported to manage extreme rising fuel
and food prices. In addition, the programme aims to encourage partnerships with voluntary sector
organisations and banks, building societies, credit unions, energy companies and others.
Outcomes
The work will need to deliver one or more of the following outcomes. For older people to:
• Manage their money more effectively
• Increase their income
• Experience less fuel poverty
• Deal better with financial distress (such as abuse, scams and so on)
Other important information
The guidelines are broad to enable different approaches, but it is inevitable that they will receive more applications than they
can fund. So, in addition to meeting one or more of the outcomes listed above, they will be assessing the extent to which
applications meet the following:
• Older people have been involved in the design of the proposal and will be supporting their peers who are
less active
• There are strategic partnership approaches with voluntary, private and public organisations and local
people of all ages to meet the needs of older people
• New approaches are being tested and disseminated
• The most isolated older people and those who are traditionally hard to reach or live in the poorest and
most deprived areas are being targeted
Projects that do not meet the criteria specified above will not be considered.
There is no overall maximum grant. This programme will not make grants under £10,000.
The first grant making cycle will open on 16th January 2012. It is a two-stage application process. First stage application forms
will be available on the Comic Relief website from 16th January onwards. The closing date for these is 13th February 2012. If
your application is chosen for further consideration, you will be invited to submit a full proposal. You will then have until the
end of March to submit this.
The second cycle for this programme will open on 10th April 2012.
If you would like to talk to Comic Relief about whether your work meets the criteria, please email them at:
ukgrants@comicrelief.com or call them on 020 7820 2000 and ask to speak to a member of staff from the Older People’s
programme.
Back to top

13. Office of the Civil
Society Local Intelligence Team
NW Update
1. £150 million Big Society 'endowment for the nation' launched
The new Community First endowment, which aims to raise £150 million to be invested to secure the
future of local community projects in England, has been launched by Nick Hurd, Minister for Civil Society.
The Government will pay in up to £50 million, giving 50p for every £1 raised from individual, corporate and
philanthropic donors. With Gift Aid tax relief, this will create a pot worth in excess of £150 million. The
money will be invested and the return, expected to be up to £12 million per year, will be used to provide
grants to local community and social action projects from 2015 onwards.
The Community Development Foundation (CDF), which manages Community First, will begin work with
local Community Foundations in the Community Foundation Network (CFN) to raise money for the
endowment.
For more information
2. The Social Action Fund Round Two opened on 9 January 2012
The Social Action Fund is a new grant fund of over £20 million managed by The Social Investment Business
on behalf of the Office for Civil Society. The Fund aims to inspire organisations to create new social action
opportunities; encouraging people to give what they have, be it time, money, assets, knowledge or
specific skills. The second application window opened Monday 9 January 2012. All applications will have to
be received by noon on Friday 3 February 2012.
For more information
Successful applications will address the following themes:
Encourage people to come together in their locality to support each other:
Projects that scale proven models to regional or national levels, or replicate them in other localities. Some
priority will be given to models that encourage those who do not traditionally get involved as volunteers.
Particularly interested in models that offer people the opportunity to give time and / or money to
activities that deliver a public benefit and complement the public sector.

14. Focus on the different life stages of volunteering:
Programmes that target the following will be favoured:
• Building a culture of participation among school children and university graduates
• Encouraging professionals who have retired or are on point of retirement to use their experience
and skills for community/public benefit.
• Inspire and support NCS graduates who want to continue contributing to their communities
through social action projects.
3. NAO report into Central Government’s Implementation of the National
Compact
The National Audit Office (NAO) has published the findings from their inquiry into how government
departments are implementing the Compact in their work. For more information download the report -
more information also at - www.compactvoice.org.uk
4. National Citizens Service Delivery Partners 2012 by Local Authority Area
In 2012 National Citizen Service will give up to 30,000 16-year-olds the chance to learn new skills and get
involved in their community, a three-fold increase in the number of places in 2011.
The scheme will take place in a number of different locations across England, information on providers by
local authority area is available at http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/sites/default/files/resources/2012-
NCS-Providers-by-Local-Authority.pdf
Back to top

15. The Community Grants Programme (CGP)
Regional Briefings
The Community Grants Programme is part of the Coalition's £100m Empty Homes Programme, which
runs from 1st April 2012 to 31st March 2015. This will be accessible to community-led-organisations and
as part of this funding programme they will not be required to become a registered provider (such as a
registered housing association).
The programme will be between £10m-£30m and bidding is expected to run from late January until the end of March 2012. The
size of the programme will depend on the level of demand.
As part of a Capacity Buiding Programme around the CGP, HACT & Self-Help Housing.Org are running a series of Briefing Events,
aimed at helping community-led-organisations with bidding and securing allocations.
These regional events will be free of charge and will provide an opportunity to find out as much as possible about the way in
which the programme will work and the arrangements for bidding. Among the issues to be covered will be:
• information as to the properties that will be eligible for funding;
• the basis on which grants will be calculated;
• issues around rents;
• nomination requirements;
• local authority support;
• and information on how you can bid.
The briefings will be taking place across the country and the dates are as follows:
• London briefing*- London: Tuesday 24th January 2012- 2.00pm-5.00pm
• South West briefing- Exeter: Tuesday 31st January 2012- 12.30pm-4.30pm
• North West briefing- Manchester: Thursday 2nd February 2012- 11.30am-3.30pm
• Midlands briefing- Birmingham: Friday 3rd February 2012- 11.00am-3.00pm
• North East briefing- Newcastle: Tuesday 7th February 2012- 12.30pm-4.30pm
• Yorkshire briefing- Leeds: Wednesday 8th February 2012- 11.00am-3.00pm
• South East and East England briefing- London: Friday 10th February 2012- 11.00am-3.00pm
*This briefing session is for groups from London only and will cover the London specific bidding process details.
In order to book your place at a particular briefing, please can you email Linda Masetti- linda.masetti@hact.org.uk with the
delegate's name, organisation and any access and dietary requirements. There are limited places available and they will be
allocated on a first come, first serve basis. We will send you an email response to confirm your place.
In addition to these face-to-face briefing sessions, there will be a webinar taking place with Jon Fitzmaurice, Director of Self-
Help-Housing.Org, on Wednesday 1st February 2012 from 3.00pm to 5.00pm via the HACT website, where you will be able to
ask Jon questions about the programme. More information about how you can participate can be found on our website at
http://www.hact.org.uk/self-help-housing and the transcript of the webinar will subsequently be available on the HACT
website.
For further information and guidance about self-help housing and the Empty Homes Programme, please go to : http://self-help-
housing.org/
Back to top

16. Job Opportunity
Operations Director – 37 hrs p/w
Salary: £34,549
n-compass NW Ltd provides a range of services that are aligned through the shared
social aim- ‘to improve the health and well-being of adults and young people across
Lancashire’. This new post will form part of the Senior Management Team and will be
responsible for the total performance of core infrastructure functions and service
streams (Carers, Counselling, Health and Wellbeing Services).
The Post:
• Offers a 5% contributory pension and 25days Annual Leave
• Will be based at Blackpool HQ and will require travel throughout the county of
Lancashire/region
• Fixed term until 31 March 2013 initially. Its continuation/development will be
determined by the outcomes/achievements the successful candidate generates
in assisting n-compass to achieve its strategic objectives.
We strive to be an equal opportunities employer.
Successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced CRB check.
For an application pack email jobs@ncompassnorthwest.co.uk stating the post of
interest or visit our website www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk or telephone admin on
01253 362140.
Enquiries for this post contact Caroline Sagar.
Closing date for completed application is 30th January 2012 at 10am.
Interviews planned for w/c 6th February.
n-compass North West Limited
3 Errigal House, Avroe Crescent, Blackpool Business Park
Blackpool, FY4 2DP
Registered Charity Number: 1128809
Registered Company Number: 6845210
Back to top

17. Congratulations to Shelley Perry on being nominated for:
1. The Positive Role Model for Age
2. The Entrepreneurial Of Excellence Award for Gender
The National Diversity Awards 2012 is dedicated to celebrating the achievements of positive role models
and community organisations across the Nation, promoting Diversity and equality with the aim to
empower and inspire the wide breadth of diverse communities within the UK. The National Diversity
Awards is honoured to incorporate Shelley Perry in our work, and we hope that you nominate for them
now!
If you would like to nominate Shelley Perry then please CLICK HERE, choose your category and spread the
word.
vote
for Shelley
Back to top

18. A promising year for CICs
Source: Guardian Professional: social enterprise network
This could be a breakthrough year for Community Interest
Companies - they are growing in strength and numbers,
says the chief executive of the CIC Association
The emerging picture of Community Interest Companies legislation is offering some cause for optimism.
From the Shetland Isles to the Scilly Isle with activity spanning Art to Zoology, there are some 6000 CICs
employing tens of thousands with a collective turnover in excess of £500m annually.
So, when the going gets tough where do the tough get going to? Well, in the case of CICs it seems to be to
the most deprived areas in the country. For example, 60% of CICs in the West Midlands work in the
poorest 20% of wards, with core activities being in health and social care, education and community
development. Although their diversity and activity is a fundamental positive that brings with it huge
promise, it can make it difficult to explain what CIC is really all about collectively. Much of what we have
been able to achieve at the Association so far has been through goodwill and with the help of Prof John
Shepherd of Birkbeck University.
CICs can be not-for-profit, for-profit, co-operative, mutual, employee led, limited by guarantee, limited by
share, a plc. Some can issue golden and preference shares, be volunteer led and pay market salaries.
Uniquely it allows individuals to frame their efforts for community change, irrespective of whether that
community is local, regional, national or international. They are being used by people from all spheres of
society, from professionals looking to maintain a social provision, to community groups taking over local
assets.
Legislative changes look likely to radically improve things too, progress on the social value bill to the House
of Lords is promising and the changes around credit unions are definitely a positive step. And the finance
bill could be a real game changer. There were some clues in the statements put out by Treasury to further
changes that really could help herald in a new era of social investment.
Obviously there are 1001 issues, but finance is key and the Association will be increasing its social
intermediary activity. We will continue collaborating, our partnership with Allia is developing well and we
hope to have the first CIC approved to use their innovative Charitable Bond in January.
With over 1600 members and a development agenda focussed on practical issues, we've a good platform
to help make 2012 a breakthrough year for CICs.
John Mulkerrin is chief executive of the CIC Association.
This content is brought to you by Guardian Professional. To join the social enterprise network, click here.
Back to top

19. Deloitte Social For more information go to:
www.deloitte.co.uk/pioneers
Innovation Follow us on Twitter: @deloittepioneer
Pioneers Email: mailto:pioneers@deloitte.co.uk
Deloitte and the Social Business Sector
The aim of the programme is to support the development and growth of the social business
sector. It is estimated that there are 62,000* social enterprises in the UK, contributing approximately £24bn* to the economy.
Deloitte believes there is significant potential for these businesses to become an influential and mainstream economic sector.
The programme aims to identify social businesses that demonstrate sustainable positive impact and high-growth potential. In
return, Deloitte will provide a package of support to help them achieve scale and become investment ready.
Heather Hancock, managing partner for talent and brand at Deloitte, said at the launch of the programme on 23rd November
2011: “Innovation and enterprise in the social business sector are increasingly a success story for the UK. It’s a highly dynamic
sector, and in the vanguard of a movement that’s also seeing leading businesses re-connect their core business purpose with
their impact in society. Business can so often be a force for good – driving innovation, investment and skill that enable social
progress and tackle some of our biggest societal challenges. There can only be more opportunity and shared progress in
harnessing this global movement with energy and fresh directions that social businesses contribute.
“However, social innovation and enterprise needs support, investment and advice to fully realise their potential. Through the
programme Deloitte is launching today, we want to help those businesses fulfil their potential by offering our Partners’ and
people’s expertise in realising high growth opportunities. At the same time, we in Deloitte are keen to learn from their
innovation and creativity.”
Also speaking at the launch, Professor Yunus said: “Businesses with a clear social purpose have the power to deliver profound
and sustainable change for the benefit of all. I strongly believe that this is the future of business. I’m delighted that forward-
thinking businesses like Deloitte, through their Social Innovation Pioneers programme, are making serious commitments to
support the development of growth in this sector.”
Package of support
Applications to be a Pioneer are now open and Deloitte will reveal up to 50 Social Innovation Pioneers next spring. The package
each will receive includes: access to Deloitte business experts and a dedicated team to manage the relationships and mentor
the social business, networking opportunities with the firm’s clients and wider contacts, master classes on topics including
leadership, business skills and investment readiness, and where appropriate, help in creating a non-executive board as well as
access to pro bono support.
Find out more about what’s on offer and the eligibility criteria,
Back to top

20. Female Entrepreneur Association
An opportunity to be featured in a book in
2012…
In 2012 the Female Entrepreneur Association is
going to be publishing a book and we are looking
for contributors.
The book is about helping women to achieve what
they want and we would love you to get involved
and become part of something that will help
women all over the world.
Share your message…
It could be something you do every day that helps you to achieve more or it could be a tip you once heard
that has helped you or just some advice from experiences you have had. Have a think about…
• How do you overcome your fears?
• How do you get motivated to take action?
• How do you stay focused?
• How do you get clarity on what you want?
• What things do you do to manage your time?
• How do you stay motivated even when you feel like giving up?
If you become a contributor…
• You will be featured in the book – name, a little bit about you and what you do, your message.
• The exercise/tip/advice you provide will be credited to you.
The book is for…
• Women from all over the world who want to achieve more in life
• Lots of female entrepreneurs of all ages
http://femaleentrepreneurassociation.com/would-you-like-to-be-featured-in-a-book-in-2012/
Back to top

21. Industrial and Provident Societies
Payment of interest on share capital
This document sets out the Charity Commission's position in relation to Industrial and Provident Societies and the payment of
interest on share capital.
Industrial and Provident Societies (IPSs) are registered with the Financial Services Authority (FSA). Currently, those that are
charities are 'exempt' charities. They cannot register with the Charity Commission, but are otherwise subject to charity law.
HMRC decides whether they are eligible for tax relief as charities.
The Charities Act 2006 will require all exempt charities either to have a principal regulator to oversee their compliance with
charity law, or (where there is no suitable body to act as principal regulator) to lose their exempt status and be regulated by the
Commission. It is unclear how charitable IPSs will be regulated in future; the Government has not yet made a decision about
this. Any change is unlikely to be agreed before mid 2012 or implemented before 2013.
Some IPSs are set up as co-operatives, which cannot be charities, but others are set up as community benefit societies, which
can be charities in certain circumstances. The activities of charitable IPSs include such things as redevelopment, regeneration
and housing projects.
Some IPSs for the benefit of the community receive tax benefits as charities but have the power to pay interest on share capital.
While the rules of industrial and provident societies often make a distinction between interest and dividends, they also indicate
in many cases that the payment of interest is out of profits and so is clearly a distribution of profits.
The Commission considers that a power to distribute profits is fundamentally incompatible with charitable status. This is
because a power of a corporate body to apply its property and assets for the purpose of making profits and devoting the
resulting profit to the distribution of dividends among the members is considered by the courts to be incompatible with
charitable status.
We have looked at the legal framework in this area and discussed it with the FSA and HMRC. We are now satisfied that there
are circumstances in which limited payments of interest may be made, which would not amount to a distribution of profits.
The Commission's position is that a power of a community benefit society to pay interest on shares is not incompatible with
charitable status, provided that the following features are required by the society's rules:
1. The interest rate is set at a level which is not in itself a motivation to buy shares and which the charity trustees
can justify as being in the interests of the charity by reference to available commercial rates for borrowing.
2. The cost is part of the society's revenue expenses and met before the surplus is determined.
3. The rates are declared in advance of the period for which they will become payable, just as for a bank or building
society account, and never retrospectively.
4. There is a power to suspend interest payments in the interests of the society.
5. There is a power of the society to withhold repayment of the shares, either temporarily or indefinitely and to
write the value down below the nominal £1.
6. The shareholding does not confer any rights to the underlying assets of the society.
7. In the event of a solvent dissolution, shareholders cannot be paid more than the nominal value of their shares.
The Commission will continue to discuss the issue with the FSA, HMRC, DCLG and representatives of other Government
departments and organisations affected.
Back to top

22. Key Changes to the Big Lottery Fund’s
Reaching Communities Buildings Fund
The Big Lottery has made several changes to the eligibility of its Reaching Communities buildings fund.
The Reaching Communities scheme provides funding for projects that improve or replace existing
buildings where a wide range of community activities take place and it funds those that are most in need.
The scheme will only support buildings or sites based in the most deprived ‘Lower Super Output Areas’
(LSOAs) in England.
Following a review of the programme late last year, the following changes have been made:
• Eligible areas are now based on 2010 deprivation figures.
• The percentage of eligible urban areas has been increased to 20% (an increase of 5%).
• The scheme will run for an additional two years. It is now projected to end in March 2015 (two
years beyond the original date).
Although there are currently no application deadlines, this is subject to change and eligible groups are
urged to get their applications in as soon as possible.
Further information on the Reaching Communities scheme can be found on the Big Lottery Fund website
(opens new window).
The Big Lottery will be completing a detailed review of how it can best support community buildings and
capital projects in the future. To that end, it seeks the views of national, regional and community level
stakeholders to help shape this future funding. The Big Lottery would like to know how its current funding
offer could be improved to better meet the needs of people and communities with a limited amount of
funding.
To register an interest in this discussion, please email rcbreview@biglotteryfund.org.uk.
Source: Big Lottery Fund, 03/01/2012
Back to top

23. Launch of
International Year of Co-operatives
The United Nations has designated 2012 the International Year of Co-operatives. From Argentina to
Zambia, the 1.4 million co-operatives across the globe will be celebrating and showing how they build a
better world.
Co-ordinated by the International Co-operative Alliance, the global voice of co-operatives, the year aims to
boost understanding of co-operatives throughout the world.
For supporters of co-operatives, it is a unique opportunity to come together as a global movement to
promote how co-operative enterprises build a better world.
For those still learning more about co-operatives, this is a chance to how they benefit hundreds of millions
of people across the world by giving people an equal say and a share of the profits.
The UN has already pledged to promote co-operatives. Co-operatives everywhere will be taking part.
If you're a co-operative business or supporter, why not take part and make the most of 2012?
If you're still learning, why not take this chance to find out more about co-operatives and how they help
build a better world?
From Co-operatives UK
New research found that there are three times more members of co-operatives than individual shareholders worldwide
Membership of co-operatives is three times higher than the number of individual shareholders across the world, according to a
report.
Around one billion people belong to a co-operative enterprise, compared with 328 million individual shareholders, research for
The Co-operative Group showed.
Just under 15% of the UK population owns shares, compared with 21% who own or are members of a co-operative, it was
revealed in the study, published to mark the launch of the United Nations International Year of Co-operatives.
Peter Marks, chief executive of The Co-operative Group, said: "These figures are testament to the fundamental appeal of the
co-operative principles which combine commercial ideals with social enterprise and support.
"Co-operation is working for millions of people across the globe and our membership is growing every day."
Pauline Green, president of the International Co-operative Alliance, said: "The co-operative business model is not business as
usual. Co-operatives are people-based enterprises and have a proven track record at local community level and at global level.
"The largest 300 co-operatives in the world are together worth 1.6 trillion US dollars (£1 trillion) and compete in some of the
world's most competitive markets."
Source: Press Association News – Money
Back to top

24. Report Proposes Business Subsidies for
Voluntary Work
A UK think tank is proposing a scheme that would encourage businesses to introduce tax relief scheme
supporting employees' voluntary work.
The Centre for Social Justice, a major UK think tank, is proposing an incentive for big businesses in the UK
to run a tax relief scheme called the “C-Volunteering” plan. The proposed plan, which will be outlined in a
forthcoming report, would encourage UK businesses to subsidise voluntary work carried out by their
employees. The proposals have been drawn up in conjunction with ‘C’, a new social enterprise group led
by three senior business professionals.
It is estimated that the plan would increase donations to charities by approximately £1 billion per year.
Businesses that enrol in the proposed plan would receive a tax relief for subsidising voluntary work carried
out by their employees. Employees would be encouraged to give up some of their working time to a
charity of their choice and the firm would increase the value of their contribution by agreeing to an hourly
rate for the voluntary work. Businesses would be able to recoup some of the costs by setting their gifts
against corporation tax in much the same way as they can offset research and development bills.
The Centre for Social Justice’s Executive Director, Gavin Poole, said:
"We need imaginative new schemes to get British companies playing a bigger role in tackling deep-
seated problems, such as educational failure and welfare dependency that are holding back the
country economically and socially.
"These proposals are a practical blueprint for revitalising Britain's hugely important and valuable
third sector and helping them at a local level to rebuild shattered lives.
"Britain has a great track record for charitable donations and for people freely giving up their time
as volunteers. But we are still far behind the United States, where the charitable impulse is more
deeply ingrained.
"In the US, charitable donations run at $212 billion (£136 billion) a year - proportionately almost
double the UK’s. We need to move closer to the American culture of corporate giving."
In its report which outlines the plan, the Centre for Social Justice points out that it is the big charities that
receive the most donations whilst small-scale charities which do much of the unacknowledged work risk
being overlooked by their bigger, better-funded counterparts. The biggest 3% of all UK charities attract
75% of the funding.
The "C-Volunteering" plan is part of a wider push by the Centre for Social Justice to boost Britain's third
sector and help grassroots charities to expand their support for the underprivileged. The Centre for Social
Justice was set up by Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith.
Source: The Centre for Social Justice, 03/01/2012
Back to top

25. SKOLL AWARDS
OVERVIEW AND APPLICATION
Skoll Awards for Social Entrepreneurship
The Skoll Foundation presents the Skoll Awards for Social Entrepreneurship each year to a select few social entrepreneurs who
are solving the world’s most pressing problems. The Skoll Award includes a core support grant to the organization, to be paid
over three years, and a noncash award to the social entrepreneur presented at the Skoll World Forum on Social
Entrepreneurship every spring.
The application process for the 2013 Skoll Awards is open from January 4 – March 1, 2012. A preview of the application can be
viewed anytime. To be considered, organizations must meet this specific Awards criteria: Winners have a tested and proven
social innovation that addresses an issue of critical importance and is positioned for large-scale impact.
Timeline for the 2013 Skoll Awards selection process:
• Accepting applications: January 4 – March 1, 2012
• Organizations notified of application status: July 2012
• Finalist due diligence on select organizations: July – October 2012
• Skoll Award recipients announced: November 2012
• Skoll Award recipients celebrated at the Skoll World Forum: March 2013
Application Process
Please read the criteria thoroughly to determine if your organization is eligible to apply for a Skoll Award. There is only one
deadline for the 2013 Skoll Awards for Social Entrepreneurship: Thursday, March 1, 2012. The application process includes the
following stages:
• Eligibility quiz: This tool is helps applicants assess their eligibility for a Skoll Award. If an organization passes the
eligibility quiz, they will be given a URL to the application. Applicants cannot move forward to the online application
unless they pass the eligibility quiz.
• Online application: Organizations that pass the eligibility quiz may then complete an online application. A preview of
the online application is available.
• Full proposal invitation: Selected applicants will be contacted by a program officer and invited to submit a full
proposal. We choose 10 or fewer applicants to submit full proposals each year.
• Due diligence: This process usually includes interviews, a site visit, reference checks, follow-up questions, in-depth
financial review and a discussion of grant objectives.
• Selection of the Awardees: We anticipate making fewer than 10 Awards each year.
For further information about the application process please read the Frequently Asked Questions page.
For more information on the Awards please head to the
Website
Back to top

26. Spanish Architect looking for opportunity in a
Lancashire workplace
Miguel Angel Montero Pau aged 34, is on a one month sabbatical from Spain from 28th January for 3
weeks in order to improve his basic English. As a qualified architect this will help him manage more
international projects. He is flexible with regards the activities he undertakes whilst in Britain and is
looking forward to any opportunity that will enable him to practice his vocabulary. Please contact me on
01772 679635 or e mail hellblazer1@btinternet.com in the first instance, as I am in the process of
coordinating his time here.
Regards
Gina Leake
Back to top

27. The Big Life Group are looking for any social enterprise which offers facilities management services for
businesses (primarily offices but including child day care centers) as they are currently working on a tender
for the near future. They have locations throughout Manchester and Liverpool which will be involved.
We would hope any enterprise who think they may offer this kind of service could get in touch and we can
give them more information.
For further information regarding our work please visit www.thebiglifegroup.com.
On Behalf of Susan Taylor
Consultant Project Manager
The Big Life Company
463 Stretford Road
Manchester
M169AB
Tel: 0161 848 2420
Mob: 07764 896 009
Back to top

28. Back to top

29. Joint Government and Big
Lottery Fund survey
The Office for Civil Society and the Big Lottery Fund are running a joint survey to ask how civil society
organisations are using websites and social media to access advice and support, funding information
and networking opportunities.
It is a chance for you to tell the Government and Lottery which websites you find useful to build skills and
capacity in your work.
The short survey should take no longer that 15 minutes to complete and closes on Friday 20 January.
Complete the OCS-BLF survey
Back to top

30. February Training Courses
CIEH Level 2 Award in Principles of Manual Handling
Manual Handling is a task everyone of us faces everyday. Whether you work in an office, factory, warehouse or retail
environment correct lifting is something you need to take seriously. More than a third of all work place injuries reported each
year to the HSE and local authorities are caused by manual handling. Manual handling is the transporting or supporting of loads
by hand or by bodily force.
Understanding how to lift correctly could help your employees avoid serious injury. This training course will provide your
employees with guidance on the correct lifting procedure and outlines what to expect from manual handling assessment. It will
enable employees to contribute to the development of safer manual handling methods and tasks in the workplace.
Course date: 06-02-2012
Cost: £95.00 (+VAT) – Non Members, £75.00 (+VAT) BEA Members
Duration: Half Day (9:00am – 1:00pm)
http://www.gwpl.co.uk/training-courses/training-course.php?course=109
CIEH Level 2 Award Environmental Principles & Practice
Many organisations have identified that tackling environmental issues can bring many benefits to their business including
reduced waste and utility costs, reduced liabilities and access to new markets and investors.
This qualification provides an awareness of key environmental concepts and an introduction to environmental management
systems, helping delegates to achieve these benefits within their organisation. It has been designed for all members of staff
whose activities could have a significant impact on the environment, or supervisors or managers who are being introduced to
environmental issues for the first time.
Course date: 07-02-2012
Cost: £125 (+VAT) – LancsBEA members, £175 + VAT – non members
Duration: 1 Day
http://www.gwpl.co.uk/training-courses/training-course.php?course=85
CIEH Level 2 Award in Principles of COSHH
This qualification will prepare employees to contribute to the safer use of hazardous substances in cooperation with their
managers and supervisors. The course complements the CIEH Level 2 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace by
introducing candidates to the inherent risks in substances and the controls available.
Course date: 09-02-2012
Cost: £75 + VAT – LancsBEA members, £95 + VAT – non members
Duration: Half Day
http://www.gwpl.co.uk/training-courses/training-course.php?course=86

31. Introduction to Corporate, Social Responsibility (CSR)
Your business doesn't exist in isolation nor is it simply a way of making money. Your employees depend on your business.
Customers, suppliers and the local community are all affected by your business and what you do. Corporate Social
Responsibility (CSR) is about understanding your business' impact on the wider world and considering how you can use this
impact in a positive way. This is a introductory level course which will provide an overview of CSR, explain the terminology and
highlight the topic areas applicable to your business activities.
Course date: 14-02-2012
Cost: £125 +VAT - LancsBEA members, £175 + VAT - non-members
Duration: 1 day
http://www.gwpl.co.uk/training-courses/training-course.php?course=67
Permit to work
This training course will enable managers to assess the requirements of a particular job or task, and ensure that Permit to Work
documentation is completed correctly and that employees undertaking hazardous activities are competent to do so safely.
Time: 9:30am -5:00pm
Venue: Groundwork Environment Centre, Blackburn, BB2 3GE
Course date: 15-02-2012
Cost: £140.00 (+VAT) – Non Members £99.00 (+VAT) LancsBEA members
Duration: One Day
http://www.gwpl.co.uk/training-courses/training-course.php?course=96
Winning Business- Sales fundamentals for telephone or field based selling & account management
(Stage 1)
To succeed in selling you need to be professional, prepared and one step ahead of your competition. Customers have a lot of
choice, high expectations and are more knowledgeable than ever due to the ease of access to information and the internet. So
what should you do to ensure they take your call, engage and buy from you? This course gives you techniques and tips to
succeed in telesales, field sales and making appointments.
Course date: 17-02-2012
Cost: £149+VAT LancsBEA Members, £195+VAT Non-members
Duration: 1 Day
http://www.gwpl.co.uk/training-courses/training-course.php?course=110
Working at Heights
The work at Height Regulations, require that any one working at height should be competent to do so and be trained in the
equipment used to gain access. This training course aims to provide the delegates with the understanding and appreciation of:
• Working at height
• Regulatory requirements
• Organising, planning and competence
• Principles to be employed when working at height
• Risk assessment

32. • Hierarchy of controls
• Selecting the right equipment
• Personal protective equipment
• Use of ladders
Course date: 21-02-2012
Cost: £95.00 (+VAT) – Non Members, £75.00 (+VAT) BEA Members
Duration: Half Day (9:00am – 1:00pm)
http://www.gwpl.co.uk/training-courses/training-course.php?course=87
CIEH Level 3 Environmental Management Certificate
On this course delegates will acquire an appropriate level of knowledge that enables them to identify and manage
environmental effects. The training programme also assists in developing the necessary management skills and techniques,
while covering the key concepts in environmental management.
Course date: 28-02-2012
Cost: £585 + VAT per delegate
Duration: 5 consecutive Tuesdays.
http://www.gwpl.co.uk/training-courses/training-course.php?course=88
To book your place on any of the above courses or to view any future courses, please visit our website
www.gwpl.co.uk
Back to top

33. Personalise It! offer free training and skills related to the
personalisation agenda for supporting disabled and older people. If
you are a volunteer, unemployed or disabled person and are
interested in learning new skills and gaining new opportunities
then you might just be the people we are looking for………..……………
Learners will be offered training and support on structured courses aimed at furthering
possibility of work within this area. There are no formal requirements although a passion
for support work would be beneficial.
For more information contact: Des Butler
Personalise It! Training Coordinator, Lancashire Centre for Independent Living
G7 and G8 , Preston Technology Management Centre, Marsh Lane, PRESTON, PR1 8UQ
Tel: 01772 250300 Email: des.butler@lcil.info
Back to top

34. Are you regularly visiting Selnet’s website for the latest news and information for social
enterprises?
Check out the Resource Bank for Toolkits / Templates / Guides and information for:
Finance / Business Planning / Marketing / Procurement / Governance / Policies / Project Management /
Evaluation and much, much more....
You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter