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Double accolade for New Start Highland as UK’s best social enterprise pioneers revealed





James Dunbar, the chief executive of New Start Highland, reflects on a double accolade for the organisation.
James Dunbar, the chief executive of New Start Highland, reflects on a double accolade for the organisation.

An Inverness social enterprise which helps people to get back on their feet after facing hardship has received a double accolade.

New Start Highland has been named on a list of the top 100 social enterprises in the UK - the only one from the Highlands to be included - while its chief executive James Dunbar was highly commended at an awards ceremony.

The organisation was named in the NatWest SE100 index produced by NatWest Social and Community Capital in partnership with Pioneers Post to highlight social enterprises which create positive change.

Mr Dunbar was also highly commended in the Pioneering Leader category at its SE100 Social Business Awards in London.

The award recognises social enterprise bosses demonstrating excellent leadership, effectiveness and inspiration in taking the team on a mission-driven journey to success.

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Mr Dunbar launched New Start Highland in 2000.

With an unwavering belief in the power of helping others, the programmes and services he has implemented at New Start Highland aim to boost health and welfare, promote education, create aspirations, encourage community spirit and connectivity - while benefitting the environment.

From furniture reuse and bike refurbishment to employability training and housing support, the organisation’s team constantly reacts to evolving needs of people who seek support in times of crisis.

Since its inception, New Start Highland has supported 240,000 people furnish their homes through its furniture outlets, provided 30,000 furniture and starter packs to people exiting homelessness and taking on a home and diverted 10,000 tons of furniture and household goods from landfill back into mainstream use.

Mr Dunbar said: “There are over 131,000 social enterprises in the UK and we are so proud to be one of the few Scottish companies in the top 100 list.

“It’s an honour to have been highly commended as a leader and I offer sincere congratulations to all the social enterprises in the category, who showcase exceptional leadership and make a crucial contribution to the third sector.

“This recognition is a testament to our team. New Start Highland would not be here today without their empathy, enthusiasm and hard work.”

Go to New Start Highland to find out how to get involved with the organisation.


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