The workshop ‘Social enterprises delivering housing: Diversity of organisations in Europe for the same mission’, organized by CECODHAS in partnership with SCMBD (Union of Czech Housing Co-operatives) within the framework of the European Conference on Social Economy organised by the Czech Presidency of the European Union, was held in Prague on 17 April 2009.

The aim of the workshop was to discuss the role and position of social housing providers in EU member states. It focused on the role these organisations play in providing services of general interest (SGI) in a context of the demands of society, stakeholders and housing markets. The workshop reflected on the common characteristics of the variety of organisations providing housing and housing-related services throughout the EU, with a view to better identify the social housing sector and to raise awareness of its added value.

During the debate which concluded the workshop, participants identified some specificities which distinguish CECODHAS members' activities, and represent our added value to society. These specificities include: re-investing earnings into our objectives; offering  social and economic stability to households, neighbourhoods and the society as a whole; making  long term investments contributing to a sustainable society; and giving members, residents and stakeholders a central position into our decision-making, and being accountable to society for our activities.

More information on CECODHAS workshop in Prague, including a full report on interventions from the panellists, and research on social enterprises by CECODHAS Observatory, can be found in the latest issue of CECODHAS Exchange which will be distributed at CECODHAS General Assembly.

> Presentations from the conference are available for CECODHAS members HERE