Appendix C – Supported businesses and social enterprises
Transport Scotland is at the forefront of promoting social and economic benefits to communities through its public procurement, as required under the Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014. It recognises that in order to reduce poverty, economic growth must be inclusive.
Supported businesses and social enterprises can contribute in a significant way to reduce inequality. Our suppliers continue to use supported businesses and social enterprises where possible, with contracts and orders with a value in excess of £430,000 placed during 2021/2022. A brief overview of some of the organisations used by our suppliers over this reporting period is provided below:
Community Food Initiatives North East (CFINE) Enterprise Ltd
CFINE improves health and well-being and the environment, tackles poverty and builds resilience through a range of support and services for disadvantaged, vulnerable, low-income individuals, families and communities in North East Scotland. CFINE is a social enterprise committed to social, environmental and economic development. It works to cooperative, community development principles which underpin and permeate the organisation and its activities.
CFINE has supplied the Northern Isles Ferry Service with fruit, vegetables, eggs and dried fruits since August 2016. All profits from the purchase of produce by Northlink are re-invested and ensures that CFINE can successfully deliver its social aims, including:
- increased engagement with volunteers
- increased engagement with foodbank beneficiaries and individuals experiencing social isolation, through cooking and training (e.g. food hygiene training)
- the provision of low-cost fruit and vegetables to individuals and families in the regeneration areas of Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire
- access to sanitary products, by supplying free sanitary products to NE Scotland, Highlands and Islands and Western Isles
- the delivery of food and other essential items to over 250 organisations throughout NE Scotland and Highlands using FareShare, which is the UK’s largest charity fighting hunger and tackling food waste. CFINE operates FareShare across the North of Scotland in seven local authorities: Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Moray, Highlands, Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland.. CFINE opened Scotland’s first community pantry in 2018, followed by three further pantries
- providing a mobile food service called Connecting with Communities that operates to help rural communities across Aberdeenshire access affordable and healthy goods at a low cost
- promoting digital participation by providing access to computers for individuals who require technology to complete benefit forms, job applications etc. Training is also provided by members of the CFINE SAFE Team
- engaging with ‘hard to reach’ individuals and focusing on warehouse and forklift training to support trainees into full-time employment
Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (SBMC)
Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (SBMC) provides employment and development opportunities for Armed Forces Veterans and others with disabilities in Scotland who may need support adjusting to life after service, enabling them to move forward in a supportive, professional workplace, delivering high quality products and services.
The signs produced by SBMC are used by Transport Scotland’s Operating Companies on the trunk road network and are also used by CalMac Ferries. The BIG Partnership, who provide Transport Scotland with communications support services, used printing services from SBMC to produce leaflets for a Low Emission Zones project, and plan to use supported businesses for provision of relevant services in the future.
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COPE Ltd, who provide food to the Northern Isles Ferry Service, is a well-established and successful social enterprise and charity which provides employment and skill development for adults with learning disabilities or autism spectrum disorders.
COPE Ltd are committed to giving people with disabilities the opportunity to participate in a supportive and inclusive work environment, free from stigma and discrimination. Everyone is valued for their abilities and are appropriately supported and encouraged to fully participate in all aspects of running the business. A range of volunteer skill development placements and supported employee positions are provided for staff.
Shetland Soap Company
At Shetland Soap Company, adults with learning disabilities are employed as part of the team producing a range of handmade soap and skincare products, inspired by the beauty of the Shetland Islands.
The Shetland Soap company has supplied the Northern Isles Ferry Service for over 10 years, providing hand soap and shower gels for all the cabins and public bathrooms. This contract is their biggest and ensures a confident footing to start on every year, knowing they have the support of such a large organisation.
Shetland Soap also provide gifts and products to the on-board shops, ensuring that travellers are aware of the company’s social purpose and know that every purchase made makes a difference to someone’s life.