Local Access

Local Access is a joint funding programme, established by Access and Big Society Capital, that aims to support the development of stronger, more resilient and sustainable social economies in six places across the country.

Over 10 years, the partnerships provide support and investment to local charities and social enterprises to grow their impact and benefit their local community. They aim to create a strong local ecosystem that will enable the social economy to thrive and to build more diverse and resilient organisations that can deliver for their communities. 

Local partnerships are unique to each place, but commonly represent social enterprises, local authorities and local sector infrastructure organisations. 

How the programme is funded

Up to £30 million of funding will be available across the six places - this includes £10 million from the Dormant Assets Scheme and repayable finance from Better Society Capital (BSC). 

Governance 

Local Access is overseen by a joint BSC and Access Investment Committee. They are responsible for approving the Local Access Investment Policy in line with the intended outcomes of Local Access and making decisions on Investment proposals. 

The current membership of the Investment Committee is:

For Access: Nick Hurd, Seb Elsworth
Independents: Steve Wyler and Richard Bearman
For Better Society Capital: James Burrows, Anna Shiel