Social Enterprise Initiatives

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Bath Spa University recognised for excellence in social enterprise initiatives

Monday, 11 December, 2023

Bath Spa University has received two finalist rankings at the UK Social Enterprise Awards in the UK Social Enterprise of the Year and the Community-Based Social Enterprise Award categories. 

First in the South West and one of only five universities in the UK to be awarded the Social Enterprise Gold Mark, the University has demonstrated its commitment to becoming as sustainable as possible and building awareness about environmental issues through community events, facilitating placements for students with local youth and community hubs, and bringing together local B Corps, CICs, co-ops and other social enterprises for the greater good. 

Demonstrating its commitment to supporting social causes and attracting top talent, Bath Spa’s initiatives have been commended by the Green Gown Awards who recently shortlisted the University in the Sustainability Champion (Staff) category.  

The Green Gown Awards showcases a diverse array of innovative projects that universities and colleges across the UK and Ireland are currently leading to create a positive change. Bath Spa’s Sustainability Manager, Julian Greaves, was shortlisted in the Sustainability Champion (Staff) category. He said: 

“I’m proud to have raised the University’s profile amongst peers, particularly via the People & Planet University League, and to have developed the second Energy Performance Contract ever performed in the UK HE sector.” 

Julian continued: 

“I’ve also influenced a ground-breaking UK HE sector's Power Purchase Agreement for renewable energy and, with consortia, persuaded our electricity provider to supply us with 100% certified renewable electricity.” 

The UK Social Enterprise Awards is the country’s biggest celebration of social enterprises, recognising the best in the sector. The University was commended for its Skills Bootcamps, partnership with Youth Connect South West, Forest of Imagination and the launch of the Bath Social Impact Network (BSIN).  

Hannah Whiting, Bath Spa University’s Business Development Manager, said:  

"We were thrilled to be finalists for not one but two recent awards programmes, and to receive the Social Enterprise Gold Mark. As a university, we strive to support not just our students but our community - all working together to make the world a better place."  

You can find out more about Bath Spa University’s social enterprise by visiting their webpage.