The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), a Westminster think tank set up by former Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith to put social justice at the heart of policy making, today (16th August) launches the first ever award to recognise outstanding philanthropic initiatives pioneered by small and medium-sized companies.
In partnership with The Fore, a trust founded to develop, scale or improve the highest-quality early-stage charities and social enterprises, the CSJ is appealing for nominations for its brand new award.
Winners will be celebrated at the CSJ's high-profile award ceremony in March 2018, attended by celebrities, ministers, shadow ministers, their officials, A-list philanthropists, and giants of the press and broadcast media.
Awards have been presented in the past by Davina McCall, Ben Fogle, David Cameron, Boris Johnson, Sir Bob Geldof, Dame Kelly Holmes, June Sarpong, Simon Callow CBE, Lord Julian Fellowes and Alastair Campbell.
Chief Executive of the Centre for Social Justice, Andy Cook commented: "This is an exciting opportunity for small or medium-sized businesses to get the recognition they deserve for a truly inspirational programme of philanthropy.
"We're looking for a corporate team with all its staff fully involved in a programme that is making a real difference in its community.
"Whether it's a company holding an annual volunteering day, engaging with their local school to advise students choosing their future careers or giving former prisoners a second chance by employing and training them, we want to know about it.
"Businesses like ICAP, Timpson's and Deutsche Bank contribute hugely to society with their corporate social responsibility programmes, but they already receive the national recognition their schemes merit.
"The CSJ Responsible Business Award will be the first to pull out inspirational small firms who are currently operating under the radar. We know there are some extraordinary companies out there and we want to find them. If you know a business that deserves its moment in the spotlight, please apply via the CSJ website."
Online applications will be open from 9am on 16th August until 5pm on 13th October on the CSJ website:
