NOT-FOR-PROFIT organisations in Cheshire West with a social conscience are being backed by Cheshire West and Chester Council.

People with learning difficulties, those who wish to build confidence in the workplace or people who need a helping hand to grow their business are being supported by social enterprises such as Industry Chester Co-Working.

Social enterprises are being championed across the country on Social Saturday on October 13.

The council supports and awards contracts to social enterprises so that they continue to work with and provide opportunities to people in society who most need help.

Councillor Brian Clarke, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Infrastructure, said: "Cheshire West and Chester Council is enthusiastic about helping the most vulnerable members of our society to improve their personal circumstances.

"By supporting social enterprises which offer work opportunities to people who need a boost and by financially backing social enterprises which provide life changing services to families, the council is helping communities to thrive.

"Social enterprises are making a difference in our community. They are set up to trade for a social purpose and using business to create a more equal society.

"They are creating jobs where they're needed and tackling some of the biggest challenges people face. They are changing the way we do business and you can support them. Social Saturday is championing businesses such as Changing Lives in Cheshire which are having a real impact in society."

Industry Chester Co-working offers a different work space for Chester's flexible and diverse workforce of entrepreneurs, freelances and the self employed, who might normally find themselves working out of coffee shops or at home.

The business is run by designers Andrew Davey and Rhys Harry, who have brought life back into an old youth club in Handbridge, Chester, by converting it into a not-for-profit co-working business.

It offers desk space with high-speed internet in a friendly, collaborative atmosphere, accommodating people that need an odd day, part-time or full-time use.

Andrew said: "We have been looking how to develop the co-working model in Chester for a few years through my research into collaborative workspaces whilst studying an MA at Chester University. Now we're taking it to the next stage."

Rhys said: "We want to help others get started in their own business who can't afford expensive rent in Chester. We are providing support to those people who need it on the start of their business journey by providing a subsidised workspace in a collaborative atmosphere.

"Our intent is that we can undertake more projects like this to retain creative, entrepreneurial talent in Chester."

You can follow @IndustryChester on Twitter or Instagram @IndustryChester. Visit industrychester.co.uk to book a desk or find out more.