SEWM 'fighting back' after funding cuts
The business network for social enterprise in the West Midlands said it is "fighting back" after having its funding cut by the government. Social Enterprise West Midlands (SEWM) has now relaunched as a newly formed community interest company (SEWM CIC).
Kevin Maton, network director of SEWM, said he believes there is a vital role for social enterprise to play in the proposed transformation of public services.
He said: “We believe we need to create our own solutions to the government’s 'big society' opportunities; nobody has all the answers but the launch of SEWM CIC can demonstrate how this idea can become a reality.
“Private sector business, social enterprises, voluntary and public sector organisations and individuals all have to work together if the Big Society is going to work.
“It should be about giving people the power to make a difference and one of the first opportunities could arrive quickly with local authorities looking to transfer key services to social enterprises, including libraries, leisure centres and care homes.”
SEWM CIC has already secured the backing of some of the region’s social enterprises and private sector companies. Halo Leisure, Unity Trust Bank, Sandwell Community Caring Trust, Citizen Enterprises, West Midlands Chambers of Commerce, Concept Conferences Centre, Rubus Services and Q3 Academy are all agreeing to be founder members.
