In July 2023 we were certified as a B-Corp - not just with one business, but two!
Having been involved in the movement since 2021 and watching with fascination, the growth, engagement, and speaking to more and more businesses about becoming a B-Corp, we were delighted to host the first B-Social in the Tees region this week.
The foundations were strong, laid down by the OG’s Robson Laidler and Sail Creative who have to date hosted four events of a similar nature throughout the North East. This one felt even more special as not only was it the first in Tees, but our first as a certified B-Corp. And what a buzz! We sold out, hosting more than 60 like-minded businesses and individuals all keen to embark on the B-Corp journey.
We had a sensational line up with three B-Corp businesses – Dan Adamson representing Robson Laider, Rebecca Kitching represented Tapered Plus (the second in Tees, and new kids on the block) and finally Rob Gilbert from Baringa, kindly introduced by ‘Dr Sustainable’ himself, Alex Hope, Deputy PVC at Northumbria University.
Our theme was ‘Impact’ which is relevant to all and every business regardless of size or sector. Impact can be defined as a change in an aspect of people’s wellbeing, or the condition of the natural environment caused by an organisation. But I am sure, like me, you have your own definition. A key question asked and answered by our panel and pondered by our audience is this – what impact are you making and what impacts are you working towards?
From voluntary days, charitable donations, improvement in policies, reducing landfill, increasing local supply chain and engaging/ educating stakeholders, the answers and examples were plenty.
One resounding message from us all – take the Business Impact Assessment (BIA, you can find it at bcorporation.net). It’s a free tool and a great place to start your journey and understand five key aspects of your business – People, Governance, Communities, Customers and the Environment.
We would love to chat to you. Contact me or any of my team to find out more.
Jessica@JustWilliamsLtd.co.uk
Twitter @JessicaJAW1903
@JustWilliamsLtd
@JustWilliamsSa1
www.justwilliamsltd.co.uk