Terms – Friends of South Cotswolds

(for businesses that support local communities)

Purpose
Friends of South Cotswolds recognises local businesses that contribute positively to our communities — not only through their services or trade, but by going above and beyond to support local people.

1. Business Type

Open to businesses of any size operating in the South Cotswolds, including:

  • Independent local businesses

  • Socially responsible SMEs

  • National companies with a strong local presence

Applicants must show a commitment to community support beyond core profit-making activity.

2. Community Contribution

Eligible businesses must demonstrate how they actively support their local community, for example:

  • Financial donations or sponsorship of local initiatives

  • Providing food, essentials, or resources

  • Offering community spaces or facilities

  • Supporting schools, youth clubs, charities, or local events

  • Encouraging staff volunteering or skills-sharing

3. Mission Alignment

Contributions should support at least one of the following aims:

  • Improve health and wellbeing

  • Support young people, older residents, or vulnerable groups

  • Promote social inclusion and accessibility

  • Strengthen community connection and resilience

  • Encourage sustainability and environmental care

4. Geographic Scope

Businesses must be based in, or actively working with, communities across the South Cotswolds.

5. Inclusivity & Fairness

Community support must be inclusive, accessible, and non-discriminatory.

6. Desirable Qualities

Priority may be given to businesses that:

  • Build long-term community partnerships

  • Adopt sustainable or eco-friendly practices

  • Demonstrate creativity in their support

  • Involve staff directly in social action

7. Not Eligible

Businesses will not qualify if their activities are:

  • Purely commercial with no community benefit

  • Political or party-affiliated

  • Entirely outside the South Cotswolds

  • Focused only on marketing/promotion without tangible support

What You’ll Need to Apply

  • Short description of the business and its values

  • Contact details for a lead person

  • Description of the support offered and its impact

  • Examples or references (if available)