Social Responsibility, or more specifically Small Business Social Responsibility, is defined as the “activities of smaller organisations that result in a positive social change" (Soundararajan, Jamali & Spence, 2017).
With changing societal expectations businesses are faced with increasing pressure to recognise and act on their social and environmental impact, in addition to their economic responsibilities.
In light of this and the fact that there are just over 5.2 million small businesses in the UK (Department for Business Innovation and Skills, 2014), Small Business Social Responsibility (SBSR) is more important than ever.
Examples of Social Responsibility already taking place in the community
Some of examples of organisations that are embodying these principles include:
- Ystrad Nursery and Garden centre in Llandovery
In the early stages of lockdown when the local supermarkets were unable to cope with demand, they extended their opening hours to offer a delivery and pick up service – providing essentials like canned foods and toilet roll, alongside seeds and compost.
Matthews Butchers started taking phone orders, bought in a new line of fresh vegetables and pantry stapes, and delivered to local people within the community– along with picking up other deliveries from local shops, including the pharmacy.
Unable to open their gym facilities, and seeing the sudden hike in prices for equipment to use at home, the owner of the Gym Shed hired out the gym equipment at reasonable prices and donated profits to charity.