The value of partnership

Founded in 2010 by Sir Damon Buffini, founding partner of Permira, and Adele Blakebrough MBE, a leading social entrepreneur, SBT has always believed in the benefits of corporate partnerships to drive greater success in charities and social enterprises. Partnerships are at the core of our work at SBT, and without them we would not be able to increase impact like we do.

Through our corporate partners, we are able to work with some remarkable volunteers from a broad range of industries. By tapping into top tier organisations from a variety of industries, we are able to establish a strong network of expert volunteers whose knowledge and experience can be transferred to great causes.

Furthermore, our partnership model provides volunteers with the opportunity to develop new skills, knowledge, and networks, all whilst helping ambitious charities and social enterprises flourish.

They feel a greater sense of purpose, it gives them renewed energy and it can even make the difference in them deciding to stay with their company. The result is greater social impact and better business. Adele Blakebrough MBE, CEO – Social Business Trust

I’ve always been quite self-critical and believe there’s always something to improve upon. But when you get that affirmation from a company externally, it gives you greater confidence to believe in doing the next step. June O’Sullivan MBE, CEO – London Early years Foundation (LEYF)

Our partners

Latest

Crossing the line: children as young as seven targeted by ‘county lines’ gangs

You’ve heard the phrase used often enough on news reports. The word “scourge” is never far away. You might have read about it online or in a newspaper or seen a video in your feed – without perhaps always grasping what the term really means. Here, Magid El-Amin from Catch22 discusses the pernicious form of criminal exploitation that is county lines, and the work his organisation is doing to combat it.
The revolving prison door of fixed term recalls. There’s a better way

Given the large number of people on probation that are being recalled back into prison for reasons of non-compliance, rather than because they’ve committed another offence, the questions must be asked: Is there a more proactive and preventative approach that will better support these individuals while they are trying to re-engage with the world? Is there a better way? Here, Miranda Shanks from Catch22 offers a way forward
Simon says ‘show don’t tell’ when it comes to mentoring

Before becoming a volunteer mentor with SBT, Simon was lending his time and experience to many causes. He coached water polo at his old school and, while he admits to not being the best cook, he would prepare meals at a food kitchen. But it wasn’t until he attended a joint SBT and Permira Foundation event that he realised how useful his professional skills could be.
Laura's leap into secondment at SBT

On secondment from EY, Laura has worked at SBT for the past nine months. As her final day nears, she offers us an insight into the good work being done by SBT social enterprises and how she's been able to support them with her skills and experience.

What we do
Our corporate partners

We work with a committed group of leading corporates and business professionals who provide practical skills and expertise in support of our charities and social enterprises
Our approach
Types of volunteering

You can volunteer your time in many ways to make a difference to the SBT portfolio and increase the impact they deliver.
Joanne Hay, CEO
The difference we make
Register interest in volunteering

We couldn't do what we do without talented people giving their time and energy! If you'd like to volunteer your skills to help social enterprises and charities scale-up, please get in touch.
Alex McAleavy, Senior Investment Manager
A Decade of Difference

Social Business Trust marked 10 years of supporting the growth of social enterprises with A Decade of Difference report. The report showcases some of the impact the corporate partners and the social enterprises have achieved together.
Setting Up for Growth

A member of our portfolio, London Early Years Foundation (LEYF), is dedicated to providing high-quality care and education for young children across London regardless of income level. June O'Sullivan MBE, CEO of LEYF explains how Social Business Trust has been instrumental in their journey.