Ballyhoura Development CLG is proud to announce that local social enterprises, ACM Castleconnell and Friars’ Gate Theatre, Kilmallock are among the first in Ireland to achieve People and Planet First Verification – a globally recognised quality mark for social enterprises. Adding to this success, Ballyhoura Development CLG itself is one of only 18 social enterprises in Ireland to receive this accreditation in the first round of the pilot initiative.
People and Planet First is a robust verification mark that ensures social enterprises are truly putting social and environmental impact before profit. Recognised in over 130 countries, it is fast becoming the global benchmark for quality in the sector.
The verification is based on five clear standards:
Purpose: Solving a social and/or environmental problem.
Operations: Prioritising purpose, people, and planet in decision-making.
Revenue: Sustaining operations through earned income.
Use of Surplus: Reinvesting the majority of profits into their mission.
Structure: Locking in their purpose legally and financially for the long term.
This groundbreaking pilot programme, driven by the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) and delivered in partnership with Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland (SERI), will work with 100 Irish social enterprises to explore how voluntary accreditation can support awareness and recognition of social enterprises nationally Interested social enterprises can learn more and apply for verification at SERI Website.
Speaking of their recent accreditation, Jo O’Donovan, Manager of ACM, Castleconnell, shared: “The ACM Community Development Society is delighted to have been awarded People and Planet First/Good Market Approval. This recognition reflects the dedication and hard work of our committee, volunteers and ACM over the years. It affirms our commitment to high-quality practices and meaningful, positive impact within Castleconnell and surrounding communities.The process offered valuable insights and opportunities for growth. We are proud to be acknowledged as a quality social enterprise and remain committed to building a positive, inclusive future for all.”
Ciara Moloney, Manager of Friars’ Gate Theatre, spoke about what the accreditation means to their community-based arts programme: “For us, this accreditation validates the work we do at Friars’ Gate with disadvantaged groups including the Travelling Community, the Ukrainian Community, service users from St Joseph’s Foundation, and elderly people in our community. The group pictured – who have been attending drama every Tuesday for the past 2.5 years – have created a space where they can express themselves creatively while combating rural isolation in our area.”
Ballyhoura Development CLG works in partnership with social enterprises to develop inclusive, empowered communities that inspire and embrace new opportunities, drive positive sustainable social, environmental and economic change, and reduce inequalities, thereby making the Ballyhoura area an attractive location in which to live, do business, and visit.
Supports include: Capacity building; needs analysis; governance and project development; training, mentoring and peer networking; support with funding and financial sustainability
Further information can be found on www.ballyhouradevelopment.com.