Government launches Mutuals Information Service

A Mutuals Information Service has been launched by the Government to deliver specialist advice and support to mutual organisations spinning out of the public sector.

A Mutuals Information Service has been launched by the Government to deliver specialist advice and support to mutual organisations spinning out of the public sector.

Funded by the Cabinet Office, the Mutuals Information Service aims to inform public sector workers about mutual models and signpost those interested in setting up a mutual to appropriate guidance and support.

The initiative is being delivered by a consortium that includes Co-operatives UK, PA Consulting Group, Employee Ownership Association, Social Enterprise UK, Baxi Partnership and the Office for Public Management.

Co-operatives UK’s role in the service is to promote the co-operative model to ensure any new public sector mutuals are sustainable enterprises based on co-operative values and principles.

Any enquiries to develop a co-operative business will also be passed onto Co-operatives UK's network of specialists.

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives UK, said: “We’re pleased to see that this service has been set up. Setting up a mutual organisation is a very hopeful but daunting prospect for many public sector workers, who are going to need high quality information, advice and support through the whole process.

“The experienced consortium behind this service are acutely aware that the need for this support has never been higher.”

Labour/Co-op MP Gareth Thomas has hit out at the Government's attempt to create mutuals. He said: "Until the government offers serious help to charities, community groups and existing employee mutuals to win contracts ahead of their big private sector rivals, many public sector workers interested in setting up employee mutuals will worry they would just end up as bid candy while big business continues to hoover up the best contracts."

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