This study examines how social enterprises in Scotland engage with 2 sets of standards:
the People and Planet First verification standards
the Voluntary Code of Practice for Social Enterprises in Scotland
It aims to identify the factors that make it easier or more challenging for social enterprises to meet these standards, why some may find one easier to follow than the other, and the differences in awareness, interpretation, and adoption between the two. Additionally, the research explores the challenges social enterprises face in aligning with aspects of the Voluntary Code, as well as broader barriers to growth and long-term sustainability within the sector. The information gathered will help shape future support strategies for social enterprises in Scotland.
This research is partially funded by Social Enterprise Scotland and supported pro bono by Edinburgh Napier University. it is being conducted by Dr Wendy Wu, Principal Investigator, and Dr Ivana Popovic, Research Assistant, staff members at Edinburgh Napier University.
There are 3 ways to take part:
1. Complete the survey
The survey should take no more than 30 minutes and must be completed before 2 May.
Access the survey using this link to a online form: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=WNzgmUucIEiGFwTDhsJUxnjVfRihGZtKu-fmxRYyWrZURVlKTjBJTjhaMzFPOFVLVVFBVEU2OFBLQS4u
2. Join a focus group discussion
To take part in a focus group email: i.popovic@napier.ac.uk with your availability for the following dates - multiple options can be selected. Once the responses have been collected, 3 final focus group dates will be confirmed based on the availability of the majority of participants :
- 14 April: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
- 15 April: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
- 23 April: 1:00pm - 3:00pm
- 25 April: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
- 28 April: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
- 2 May: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
3. Participate in a one-on-one interview
Take part in a one-on-one interview, lasting no more than one hour. To register, email: i.popovic@napier.ac.uk with your availability.
Before you decide to participate it is important to understand the purpose of this research, what your participation involves, and how your data will be protected. These documents are available on the Napier University website.
