New government must recognise third sector's vital role - The Social Investment Business

Wednesday 12 May 2010

Commenting on the formation of a coalition government of the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties Jonathan Lewis, chief executive of The Social Investment Business said:

“We look forward to working with Prime Minister David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ministers in the new government as they set about the difficult task of addressing the tough economic situation and securing the future of public services.

“The third sector has a vital role to play in helping the country deal with the public sector spending squeeze ahead. In a time of inevitable cuts it’s essential that the third sector can rely on sustainable sources of funding, like those provided by The Social Investment Business.  A strong third sector will be crucial for a coalition government looking for new ways to deliver local services at the best possible value to the taxpayer.

“We know that social enterprises, charities and community groups want to continue to grow despite the recession from the enquiries for up to £90 million worth of loans and support we receive every month.”

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1. For further information or interviews, please contact The Social Investment Business press office:

Liz Banks - 0207 842 7726/ 07809 504072  liz.banks@socialinvestmentbusiness.org

Nicola Jones - 0207 842 7755 nicola.jones@socialinvestmentbusiness.org

2. The Social Investment Business, the fastest growing social investor in the UK, exists to help social enterprises, charities and community organisations do more of what they do best – supporting people and communities most in need. We help organisations prosper by providing innovative financial solutions, business support and long term strategic thinking.

www.thesocialinvestmentbusiness.org @TheSocialInvest

3. The Social Investment Business manages Government funds on behalf of the Office for Civil Society, the Department of Health and the Department for Communities and Local Government, with over 1,000 active investments. These range from £3,600 to help a small organisation bid successfully for a public sector contract, to £6.7million to help a large national charity establish and develop innovative new services for children and young people.