The Perth and Kinross Social Enterprise Group Tour Aberfeldy
The Perth & Kinross Social Enterprise Group (PKSEG) enjoyed tours of three social enterprises in Aberfeldy as part of their most recent quarterly peer support meeting.
The PKSEG, which is facilitated by enterprise support organisation GrowBiz, works collaboratively to develop and promote social enterprises in Perth and Kinross.
First up on the tour was the Birks Cinema, and members of the PKSEG heard about their recent 10 year Birthday Celebrations. The Birks Cinema is a community enterprise that provides a world-class cinema programme, a thriving catering offer in the cafe/bar, plus a wide range of inclusive community activities and unique cultural events.
Also with cause for celebration was the next stop, Handam Refill Station CIC. Handam have just moved to bigger premises on Aberfeldy Bank Street, where customers can stock up on affordable refills of dry foods and household liquids, and have a look at a large selection of supplies to help save money and reduce waste. Further exciting plans are being put in place for the remaining vacant space to benefit various other community initiatives and needs.
The final social enterprise on the Aberfeldy tour was The Workshop, where members were able to meet the team and watch their manufacturing process from start to finish. It was very inspiring to hear some of the stories around the invaluable practical skills and work experience they are giving so many young members of the local community.
GrowBiz Project Coordinator, Jenny Lyall, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the amazing work that these three social enterprises are doing in such a rural setting. Aberfeldy is very lucky to have them all."
Co-CEO of GrowBiz, Jackie Brierton, added: “It’s vitally important that the positive impact social enterprises have on society, local communities and the economy is recognised. The Perth and Kinross Social Enterprise Group exists to create opportunities for them to develop and thrive.”
The PKSEG has a variety of membership benefits, including an online directory, peer support meetings to network and collaborate with other social enterprises in the area, and support to raise awareness of what social enterprise is and what it does for the community.
If you are running your own social enterprise and would like to be part of the Group, please contact Jenny at GrowBiz at jennylyall@growbiz.co.uk