Demonstrating Co‑operative Difference
Corporate Social Responsibility, Diversity, Environment/Sustainability, Performance monitoring, The Co‑operative Economy
Co‑operative, Environmental and Social Performance Indicators
Please click here for a pdf factsheet about the CESPIs
In January 2001 the Co‑operative Commission identified co‑operative and social performance as being one of the key contributors to the future success of the co‑operative sector.
Its virtuous circle model reminded the Movement that co‑operative enterprises are in business to fulfil their co‑operative purpose; by achieving commercial success they are able to invest in their co‑operative and social goals, creating a co‑operative advantage.
The business case for actively managing co‑operative and social performance is becoming increasingly clear, particularly for values-driven organisations such as co‑operatives.
For example, The Co‑operative Bank has calculated that 30 per cent of its £130m profit can be attributed to its ethical stance, United Co‑operatives' commitment to the environment saw energy reduction projects that saved the Society £2m, while the Co‑operative Group estimated that in 2003 the positive media coverage of its ethical campaigns was equivalent to £4.9m in advertising.
A working group, embracing member organisations and experts in the field of social reporting, has been working closely with officers of Co‑operativesUK to manage a series of indicators designed to improve Co‑operative, Environmental and Social Performance Indicator (CESPI) reporting across the Movement.
To complete a CESPI return for your society, or to find out more about the work the CESPI Working Party does, please use the links below:
