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What is a social firm?

What is a Social Firm? A Social Firm is a type of social enterprise that creates meaningful, fair employment for people who face barriers in the labour market. It operates as a real business—selling goods or services—while placing social impact at the heart of everything it does.

At least 30% of its employees are people who are disabled or under-represented, including (but not limited to):

• People with learning, physical or sensory disabilities
• Neurodivergent people
• Black and ethnic minority communities
• LGBTQ+ people
• People with experience of homelessness
• People leaving prison
• People in recovery from substance misuse
• People managing mental health challenges

A Social Firm is market‑driven, earning more than half of its income through trading. This commercial foundation ensures sustainability, while its social mission ensures every role is inclusive, supportive, and genuinely life‑changing.

Part of a wider international movement, Social Firms demonstrate that businesses can succeed commercially and break down barriers—creating workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to contribute, grow and thrive.

Cardiff Cycle Repair Workshop

Cardiff Cycle Workshop was founded to promote the benefits of cycling through education and skill-sharing, and now boasts an award-winning workshop offering affordable bikes and repairs to the community.

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Sharing member, products & services...

Social Firms Wales is nothing without its amazing network of members from across Wales and we want to use our platform to tell the rest of the UK and the world about your social impact, products and services. Through our website, newsletter, blogs, network events and Social Media, our focus is to raise the profile of Social Firms across Wales to create opportunities and develop market opportunities. If you have stories, case studies, products and services, events, or opportunities that you would like to share please email Jamie Horton at jamiehorton@socialfirmswales.co.uk

 

Social Firm Case Studies from across Wales

May
This month our Member Spotlight shines on Trails, Bales & Snails...

Trails, Bales & Snails is a nature-based blog and events platform founded by Lisa Turner, helping children and families reconnect with the natural world through outdoor adventures, treasure hunts and nature play. The organisation inspires families to step away from screens, explore local green spaces and discover the joy of playing in and with nature.

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April
This month our Member Spotlight shines on 'Nysa'....

Nysa is a neurodivergent‑led accessibility company helping venues and public spaces become more inclusive by giving visitors clear, practical ways to understand what to expect before they arrive.

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March
This month our Member Spotlight shines on 'Hubbub Penarth'....

Hubbub, a registered charity in the heart of Penarth is a retail training space for young people with additional learning needs. Both current and past pupils of Ysgol y Deri gain valuable, transferable employability skills through Hubbub work placements.

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