Jonathan Simmons on Next Generation Social Investment

The Ratio Talks podcast is currently exploring the potential for a ‘relational social policy’, one that seeks an optimal balance between two powerful forces, a big civil society and a small state. The ideas are summarised in this paper and this podcast. 

The first episodes in the series are considering the implications of a relational social policy for philanthropy. 

A fortnight ago we talked to Géraud de Ville de Goyet from Barking and Dagenham Giving, a new way of thinking about investing in place.

In this episode we talk to Jonathan Simmons, an entrepreneur who has switched his attention to social investment. 

In this episode, he talks about his partnership with Géraud and BD_Giving. Jonathan is looking to invest in local businesses that deliver a social good. 

The U.K. is often thought of as being at the forefront of social investment, but Jonathan has found it difficult to raise the money for his new venture. 

Jonathan’s story tell us a lot about the challenge of thinking differently about giving, and about widening our gaze from service providers to the full span of civil society.

Pritpal S. Tamber, international expert on community power joins the conversation at the end to draw out the main themes.

The conversation between Michael and Pritpal reflects their views.

Subscribe to Ratio’s Newsletter here and find out more about Pritpal S Tamber’s work here.

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Get in touch with us any time by sending an email to hello@ratio.org.uk.

Ratio Talks is produced with the help of sound designer Nik Paget-Tomlinson and creative director Richard De Angelis. The show’s theme song is by Luca Picardi.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thisisratio.substack.com