A Brighton based enterprise has been recognised for excellence in volunteering and pro bono support for social value across the community.

The Organisation for Responsible Businesses, a national accreditation not-for-profit body, has assessed Strategic Management Partners as an Exemplar of the highest standards of social value. As part of the certification requirements, MD Clive Bonny, based at his home office in Rottingdean, undertook a 6-week development programme covering the broader ESG (Social, Environmental & Governance) agenda. He then submitted an evidence-based application so that his community support activities could be benchmarked against best practice national standards.

These activities included providing work experience for students, supporting local campaigns to save libraries from closure, improving employability skills with free online learning, promoting equal opportunities for female entrepreneurs, supporting wellness research between human and animal health, advising charities on donation strategy, reporting on local road safety measures, suicide risks and environmental light pollution, and supporting local arts, nature, cultural heritage, tourism and photography groups.

Clive says “We cannot live safe and healthy lives without safe and healthy communities around us. There are so many opportunities to support others. Taking small steps to give time to help others adds up to making a big difference. The Organisation for Responsible Businesses “ORB” provides free accessible online advice on standards and an easy to apply framework. Their recognition also enables small enterprises like mine to win more work in the public sector. I encourage any individuals and small enterprises to explore this further”

Jill Poet, CEO of ORB, commented: “Clive sets an excellent example of an established, successful small business that is also committed to supporting his local community. We are delighted that he has achieved Social Value (Community) Certification at this very high level.”

Contact Jill Poet Jill@orbuk.org or Clive Bonny Clive@consult-smp.com