It is a business which uses its market-orientated production of goods and services to pursue its social mission. A significant number 2 of its employees will be people with a disability or other disadvantage in the labour market Every worker is paid a market rate wage or salary appropriate to the work whatever their productive capacity. Work opportunities should be equal between disadvantaged and non-disadvantaged employees.
All employees have the same rights and obligations.
The business will be a viable concern, which operates in the open market Social Firms should strive to involve employees in decision-making, and create opportunities for training and development, whilst fostering mutual support amongst employees. Next Definition of an Emerging Social Firm A business, which, in the long or shorter term, will progress to becoming a social firm. Disabled employees may still be in receipt of benefits and payments fall within the limitations of the existing benefits system. The business requires a high level of subsidy to assist the development and establishment of the enterprise, but aim to reduce the level of subsidy.