East Sussex website for volunteer and community groups is named social innovation of the year

The East Sussex Social Value Marketplace, a partnership between Orbis and East Sussex County Council’s (ESCC) Public Health team, was named Social Innovation of the year at the National Social Value Awards. Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations can use the platform to request help from local businesses and organisations. County councillor Nick Bennett, lead member for resources, said: “I am delighted that the efforts of our colleagues have been recognised with a national award. “Still in its early stages, the East Sussex Social Value Marketplace has involved a great deal of work with partners in the voluntary sector, NHS, district and borough councils, public health and representatives from the business community. “The result is the development of an online platform which supports the fantastic work of our local charities, enhances the lives of our residents and encourages people to contribute to their community.” Sussex Community Development Association, a group helping vulnerable people, was the first group to benefit from the Social Value Marketplace when they sourced a food donation from East Sussex County Council. An spokesman for the organisation said: “As a very busy food bank at a difficult time of year for many, this donation was very gratefully received and delivered to our door. “A very big thank you to everyone who donated, and those who organised and delivered the donations.” Other groups benefiting from the platform include residents working with Alfriston Parish Council to improve the area, Hastings and St Leonards Food Network looking for a venue to train volunteers, and Aspiration Club which is looking for youth group support volunteers. For more information about the East Sussex Social Value Marketplace and how to sign up, visit this website.