news Melanie’s work inspires the PM
A SOCIAL enterprise which builds the confi dence and capability of individuals and organisations to make a positive difference is the latest winner of the Prime Minister’s Big Society Award.
T
he founder of the Wigan-based WhyNotChange, Melanie Bryan has worked with hundreds of women, young people,
social enterprises, charities and businesses. Her achievements include setting up an enterprise event for
women across the North West, providing practical enterprise support to students and setting up a consortium of charities and social enterprises to win public sector contracts. David Cameron said: “Melanie is an inspiration and clearly
has great energy and passion to change people’s lives. Her work to support enterprise in the North West and help others get on in life is to be greatly admired. “She is the embodiment of the Big Society at work, and while not everyone will have the time and energy of Melanie, I hope it will inspire others to think about the small things they can do to make a big difference in their community.” Melanie said: “This is a huge and very unexpected honour. “It’s a fantastic accolade not only for us, but also for the amazing people and organisations who have joined us on our journey, generously giving their time, skills and experience. “If everybody makes just one small change the cumulative
impact would be phenomenal. “We hope that our story will encourage you to believe that
you too can make a positive difference and to start taking action today to make it happen.” Visit:
www.whynotchange.co.uk
Searching for an
Inspiring Woman? The search is on for the region’s remarkable women. You can nominate your woman of the year in four categories - business, community, social entrepreneur and creative/media. Plus the Inspiring Young Woman, aged 16-25.
Check out
www.inspiringawards.co.uk Nominations by 2nd April.
Critics have accused the PM of using the Big Society as “a cover for cuts”, with local authorities facing massive job losses and reductions in services. But Mr Cameron said: “These awards
Prime Minister David Cameron has launched a weekly award that recognises examples of the controversial ‘Big Society’. He hopes that the Big Society
Awards will inspire people to get involved in their community.
are a chance to pay tribute to those making a valuable contribution to their community, the real champions of the Big Society, but perhaps more importantly, I hope they will motivate many others to take action, get involved and drive change in their area.” Critics say Mr Cameron is mounting an ideological attack on public services and is seeking to create a
more individualised society, with less emphasis on collective public provision. Many in the social enterprise
movement fear they are collaborating with the cuts agenda by going along with the Big Society concept. Individuals, businesses, charities,
community groups and other organisations are all eligible for an award and nominations can be submitted via the No 10 website. Award winners will receive a
certifi cate from the Prime Minister and will be invited to a regular Big Society Award Winners Reception at Downing Street.
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