Social enterprise structures guide launched

Posted by TPP Law from TPP Law
On 5 February 2010 - 12:12pm

Conditions are ripe for a wealth of new social enterprises to emerge with government seeing them as a key factor in boosting the UK economy.

A range of areas of public services from primary healthcare to education, childcare, social care and offender management offer good opportunities for social entrepreneurs.

One of the most important early decisions for such businesses or sponsoring authorities must make is which legal structure to use for the business.

To help businesses through this minefield, specialist law firm, TPP Law, has now published the second edition of its Practical Guide to Structures for Social Enterprises.

“There is a bewildering array of possible formats for social enterprise,” says TPP Law Managing Director Mark Johnson. Each has its own advantages, disadvantages and quirks.

“It is important when choosing a legal structure for a social enterprise not to let the tail wag the dog. This means being very clear about what you want to achieve and what activities and services the new organisation will engage in, and then selecting the business format best designed to deliver success.”

TPP Law’s guide has been updated to cover recent legislative developments, such as the entry into force of the Charities Act 2006 and development of government policy in this area. It offers separate sections looking at unincorporated vehicles; incorporated vehicles; charitable status; case studies; good governance and recent amendments to The Community Interest Company Regulations.

Copies of TPP Law’s Practical Guide to Structures for Social Enterprises can be obtained via their website - http://www.tpplaw.co.uk/news/newsitems/News0111.aspx

For further information, please contact Mark Johnson, TPP Law, on 020 7620 0888 or email mark@tpplaw.co.uk