Upturn secures spot in NatWest SE100 Index for third consecutive year

Upturn named as a top 100 social enterprise for a third year running

Local social enterprise Upturn, which supports some of the area's most disadvantaged young people in building businesses and finding employment, is celebrating its inclusion in the NatWest SE100 Index for the third year in a row.

Upturn has been instrumental in providing job placements and full-time employment opportunities with various companies and franchises, including McDonald’s in Rochdale. They support individuals who have faced obstacles such as turbulent family backgrounds, learning difficulties, and language barriers.

This achievement has once again earned them a place in the NatWest SE100 Index, which is the social enterprise equivalent of the prestigious business lists published worldwide.

Anwar Ali, OBE, managing director of Upturn, said: “This is not just a reward for Upturn but also a vindication of the social enterprise approach. Instead of relying on philanthropy to survive, social enterprises reinvest profits back into the community rather than distributing them to shareholders.

“It’s a delicate balance between entrepreneurial and charitable efforts that enables individuals to become self-sufficient, benefitting us all.”

Upturn has successfully established a network of employers, both large and small, to place unemployed young people into suitable jobs. Their collaborations with notable organisations like McDonald's and BBC Children in Need have garnered national attention, leading to their repeated inclusion in the SE100 Index.

“There are many potential business owners in Rochdale who have innovative ideas but lack the confidence or resources to start,” continued Anwar. “One of our roles is to guide and support them on everything from accessing start-up funds to effective marketing strategies. We can also connect them with the skilled staff necessary to achieve their business dreams.”
 

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At CV clinics held at Rochdale Riverside, Upturn’s employment experts meet with aspiring entrepreneurs and job seekers. The social enterprise has also introduced the "Hope on Wheels" initiative, a mobile service providing health, employment, benefits, and financial advice to disadvantaged areas via a specially equipped campervan.

Muzahid Khan DL, social enterprise and innovation manager at Upturn, said: “Our success stems from having a team that embodies the best aspects of social enterprise. We combine business acumen with a strong commitment to our communities, aiming to expand our influence and impact.”

The NatWest SE100 Index highlights the top 100 social enterprises in the UK, celebrating organisations that provide a wide range of goods and services, from job training and books to clean energy and period products. The index assesses these enterprises based on strict criteria, including business performance and social impact.

Upturn has also been recognised in the Social Pioneering category within the accompanying awards scheme.