Through our online directory platform and social media outreach we raise the value of shopping local, encourage community engagement and help residents discover jobs and community events on their doorstep, therefore boosting the local economy and increasing opportunities for all residents in the local area. Since it’s inception, INfurness CIC has been supporting jobseekers and employers through a dedicated and subsidised local jobs page, helping to reduce unemployment and easing access to opportunities by regularly promoting and strengthening the local workforce. Additionally, INfunress CIC has helped hundreds of small businesses reach new customers, supported the visibility of local events and initiatives and played an active role in encouraging residents to choose local first. By promoting local enterprise, increasing digital confidence among business owners and nurturing community spirit we are contributing to a more sustainable and connected Furness economy.

Stakeholder consultation has been carried out through a combination of one to one meetings with fee paying ‘featured businesses’ and non-fee paying ‘listed’ businesses, daily social media engagement with residential social media users in the area and email communication with residents and businesses who use our contact us page to feed back their thoughts and opinions about our services. We also have daily informal discussion with people in live settings on the streets of Furness. We occasionally interact on social media to enquire how our audience feel local economic challenges and digital visibility can be supported by INfurness CIC and INfurness Local in supporting the growth of independent businesses. Actions taken in response to stakeholder feedback have included the introduction of tailored social media marketing packages to support businesses who requested additional assistance with promotion due to time restriction in the everyday requirements of running their businesses. The regular promotion of our jobs page to help stimulate activity in the face of challenges created by the dominance of locally placed BAE Systems on the employment market. The plans we now have to launch a local podcast series to find out about local business owners and strengthen consumer engagement and understanding of their reasons for being in business and challenges faced (a little like A Diary of a CEO) As of May 2025, clients/members now have an increased number of options regarding payments which make affordability even easier to manage. Consultation is ongoing and remains a core part of our approach to ensure that INfurness CIC is committed to being actively responsive, inclusive and beneficial to the communities and businesses it exists to serve.

During the financial year, no directors receive renumeration in respect of their statutory duties as directors. However, the Project Director received a small amount payment for operational, and sales related tasks carried out in support of the company’s day to day running. This work was separate from their role as a director and was compensated at a rate below the national minimum wage, reflecting the start up nature of the CIC and the director’s commitment to its social mission. All other directors contributed their time on a voluntary basis. Any future renumeration will be considered in line with CIC regulations and the company’s governing documents.

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration