People and possibility
Here at Brimscombe Mill you can experience an economy that's better for everybody. Share what you can, take what you need and see your community transformed.
Old concepts
Since we were founded in 2015, we have been inspired by the vision laid out by Jesus in Luke 4 (below), of an economy rebuilt around the needs of the most marginalised. To achieve this, we look to the ancient model of the monastery, a centre of economic activity, learning and personal growth. When we centre our business model on justice and wellbeing, when we come together as a community, our shopping, working and living can help create a fairer, healthier world.
New approaches
Brimscombe Mill has the heart of a charity, and the body of a business. All our businesses are Community Interest Companies and work toward their fixed social purpose. We invest in and support our social enterprises, and the profits are then recycled into the local community through higher staff pay, community events and providing free or subsidised goods.
Our Luke 4 vision
We want to show the vulnerable that change is possible. To help free people who feel trapped, and tell the world a new way of living. To help free people from the things, systems and choices that oppress them, to proclaim a new start, a second chance of a good life.
Our impact
Every year we measure and report on our social and environmental impact, as well as the key achievements of our social enterprises. Below shows a snapshot of the social impacts in 2023/24.
1,189
referral packages provided to local individuals and families. That is 4.5 packages each working day.
38,305
meals produced by Long Table at the Mill this year. That is 147 meals every working day.
224
tonnes of items reused including bikes, toys, food waste & furniture. That is just under 1 tonne each working day.
54,857
hours of paid employment on site at Brimscombe Mill.
389
activities and events were held on site. These include craft, music event and board game club. This is 1.5 events each working day.
Empowered by
The Grace Network
The Grace Network takes over large buildings and moves in social enterprises. All the businesses at Brimscombe Mill are part owned by Grace Network and part owned by the local enterprise community hub, with profits reinvested into the local community.
Brimscombe Mill is the network’s first hub, and more will open in the very near future - watch this space.
