Over 200 people gathered at Leeds Town Hall to participate in the formal launch of Aspire Community Benefit Society. Councillor Lisa Mulherin (Executive Lead for Leeds City Council Adult Social Care) said that the staff-led social enterprise was an innovative approach to delivering services. She went on to wish people who use the service, their carers and staff well for the future.
Andy Rawnsley (Chief Executive of Aspire) thanked the many people who have contributed in so many ways to bringing Aspire to fruition: elected members, Trades Union representatives, customers, staff across Leeds City Council and particularly our fantastic staff team who had the commitment, passion and vision to whole-heartedly support the proposal to establish a social enterprise when it was first suggested. In fact, Andy has calculated that together the staff bring 10,332 years of experience to the organisation which is a pretty amazing statistic.
To round off the formalities Dramarama – one of our performing arts groups – entertained the audience with songs and dance from Grease. It was truly awesome and the crowd loved it.
After watching John Travolta, Olivia Newton John and the gang it was time for tea and wonderful cup cakes prepared by staff. Thank you to everyone who attended for making the official launch such a success.