A UK policy perspective: thought piece from the UK Social Enterprise Coalition

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a view on key social enterprise research priorities from the perspective of the UK's national body for social enterprise.

Design/methodology/approach

The suggestions are informed by the coalition's ongoing policy work, especially preparation for a Ministerial Summit on social enterprise held on the 12 March 2009. Preparation involved building on extant policy positions and desk research, and extensive consultation with coalition members and the wider social enterprise movement, including regional consultation events, an online forum, semi‐structured interviews and workshops and discussion at the summit itself.

Findings

A number of areas of particular interest for future research are identified in the context of a highly dynamic policy, political and economic climate for social enterprises.

Research limitations/implications

The recommendations are based on limited time for original research and are the opinion of an organisation that exists to promote social enterprise.

Originality/value

It is hoped that future research in the areas identified will inform the policy agenda, raising the profile of social enterprise research, increasing its impact and ultimately leading to better support for and understanding of social enterprises.

Citation

Shah, D. (2009), "A UK policy perspective: thought piece from the UK Social Enterprise Coalition", Social Enterprise Journal, Vol. 5 No. 2, pp. 104-113. https://doi.org/10.1108/17508610910981699