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1 nomination from readers

• Fresh Horizons was established in 2002 from a former community organisation. The company operates within one of the most deprived communities within the Kirklees borough. The company had two employees and a turnover of £80,000 almost entirely grant aid. The company expanded rapidly and in 2005 was on the verge of folding.

  A new Managing Director was recruited and the company now employs a diverse staff team of 32 with a current turnover of £700,000 and delivers a broad, but complimentary range of services and activities managed within four sections. These include building management, construction, research and learning and a community café.

  The vast majority of income, particularly core business, is now earned through contracts with grants being used to deliver projects and develop other sustainable income streams. This major turnaround has only been possible through strong leadership, management, and focus by the MD, staff commitment, adapting and changing. Not only has this resulted in numerous local jobs being saved but a firm foundation and further sustainable growth being achieved.

  The company now has an exemplary reputation for delivery which is evidenced through the range of contracts it delivers, partnerships, and the local Council progressing the potential transfer of substantial physical assets.

  The company is now operating from a stable position and on a commercial basis but providing numerous social returns through local employment, services, activities, volunteering, access to training and learning, social and cultural activities – all of which, I believe, to be the true ethos of a successful social enterprise.

  Nominated by Andi Briggs, 08 May 2008