What is a Social Firm? A Social Firm is a type of social enterprise✻ with the specific purpose of creating employment for people disadvantaged in the labour market as a result of mental illness, disability or other circumstance. Through employment and training opportunities in integrated workplaces, Social Firms foster social inclusion of people who are disconnected from the community as a result of mental illness, disability or other disadvantage Social Firms originated in Italy and now operate successfully in the UK and throughout Europe providing employment and training to thousands of people with a disability or disadvantage. Social Firms Australia (SoFA) is a not- for- profit organisation committed to improving the quality of life as well as the social and economic integration of Australians living with mental illness, disability or other disadvantage through the development of Social Firms and accessible employment in the broader workplace. SoFA works in partnership with a range of philanthropic, government, business, employment and community organisations.
Definition A Social Firm is a ‘not-for-profit’ business which: •
has an integrated workplace: ideally between 25- 50% of employees have a disability or disadvantage
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generates the majority of its income through the commercial activity of the business
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pays all workers at award/ productivity-based rates
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provides the same work opportunities, rights and obligations to all employees
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provides a supportive working environment, building modifications required for employees in need of support into the design and practices of the workplace.
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A social enterprise is a business that trades for a social purpose.
What are the benefits of Social Firms? Promoting integration and social inclusion The Social Firm’s integrated nature, of employees with and without a disability or disadvantage, promotes the development of natural supports in the workplace, as well as improving community understanding of mental illness, disability and related issues – connecting people back into their local community through a work environment. People with additional support needs are recognised as coworkers and are not defined by their disability. Rehabilitation through work Paid employment provides a practical experience which vocational rehabilitation is not able to replicate. Paying someone for the work they do gives a message of respect and status to the individual, as well as responsibility. This allows for many of the goals of rehabilitation, such as confidence, work and social skills to be achieved through the experience of work rather than offering promises once changes are made through rehabilitation. Social Firms demonstrate that employment should be viewed not just as a goal of rehabilitation but very much part of the process. Sustainable jobs in sustainable businesses Social Firms operate in the real world of the commercial market place. Staff are focused on the priority of ensuring quality products and services. The Social Firm’s structure and integrated workforce ensure that fluctuations in productivity and or roles can be absorbed by the staff most able to adjust to increased pressure, responsibilities or hours. This flexibility helps ensure the business can remain commercially viable as well as supportive. A partnership model Social Firms work in partnership with existing organisations, networks and systems to create accessible employment, helping them to achieve their aims in a more sustainable, effective manner: this includes employment support, health and rehabilitation agencies as well as the business sector. Best practice workplaces Social Firms provides a model of a best practice workplace, with an integrated, supportive work environment which can act as a demonstration ‘best practice’ model for all workplaces showing that: • People with a mental illness, disability or other disadvantage can work productively with appropriate support. • While government supports and incentives can compensate for any additional costs in providing support, this is minimised by the commercial sustainability of the Social Firm. • Commercial viability need not be compromised by employment of people with a disability or disadvantage. • The mental health and well-being of all staff is improved by an employer demonstrating commitment to recruiting staff with particular support needs and providing a flexible supportive workplace.
To find out more Contact Caroline Crosse, Executive Director www.socialfirms.org.au
SoFA (Social Firms Australia Ltd) info@socialfirms.org.au
Phone 03 9445 0373 Fax 03 9445 0375 Suite 20/ 288 Brunswick St Fitzroy VIC 3065