BSU shortlisted for UK Social Enterprise Awards

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BSU shortlisted for UK Social Enterprise Awards

Bath Spa University is a finalist in the ‘UK Social Enterprise of the Year’ category at the UK Social Enterprise Awards, recognising it as one of the country’s most innovative and impactful businesses. 

These prestigious national awards are run by Social Enterprise UK to recognise sector-leading excellence and innovation across a diverse range of criteria. Social enterprises are mission-led businesses that reinvest or donate at least half their profits for a social or environmental purpose. 

BSU is being recognised for a number of projects and initiatives, including its Skills Bootcamp and Click Start courses, Bath Social Impact Network, social engagement initiatives in Twerton and Radstock and expanding its reach with a new London centre, offering unique Business and Management and Health and Social Care courses. 

Bath Spa University holds a first-class distinction in the People & Planet League and is developing exciting net zero Social Enterprise plans, positioning the University as a living laboratory for net zero excellence. 

BSU was also named as the University of the Year for Social Inclusion by The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024 in recognition of its commitment to empowering students from all backgrounds with the opportunity to study and thrive in higher education.  

Hannah Whiting, Head of Business Development at Bath Spa University, said:  

“We are honoured to be nominated for ‘UK Social Enterprise of the Year’ for the second year in a row. Bath Spa University has had an exceptional year, embedding ethical and inclusive social value practice throughout its operations. As a university we strive to support not just our students but our community locally, nationally and internationally.”  

There are an estimated 131,000 social enterprises in the UK, employing more than two million people and contributing £60 billion to the national economy each year, while also tackling some of the biggest challenges facing people and planet. 

Peter Holbrook CBE, chief executive of Social Enterprise UK, commented:  

“Our Awards are the ultimate showcase of social enterprise impact and excellence – so those who made the shortlist represent the future of business, and a beacon of hope in turbulent times.   

“‌Despite economic challenges, these trailblazers are not only making profit but using it for the good of people and planet. Businesses big and small have a vital role to play in solving the problems we face as a society, and the social enterprises celebrated at our Awards give us all inspiration and motivation to do business better.”  

Bath Spa University will attend a VIP ceremony in London’s iconic Roundhouse on Wednesday 4 December to find out if they’ve won this highly sought-after award. 

Find out more about the UK Social Enterprise Awards.