After a rollercoaster year, during which Stroud's Brimscombe Mill faced shock eviction and closure before being saved by a huge donation from James Bond star Daniel Craig, the community hub has revealed it's won a prestigious UK top 100 social enterprise award.
Named in the NatWest SE100 2025 top 100 social enterprises, the list and awards programme celebrates the UK's best social enterprises, with Brimscombe Mill measured on criteria such as financial performance; how it managed its impact; and its commitment to both climate issues and to taking positive action on equality and diversity.
The Brimscombe Mill community includes charities such as The Long Table, Kids Stuff, Stroud Furniture Bank, The Bike Drop and the Grace Network.
Back in March 2024, the mill and its organisations were given just five months to find alternative premises after its shock overnight sale.
Huge public outcry led to the mill's profile being raised to national level, after which several donations were received to help the community buy the mill centre, including a huge anonymous donation, which was revealed as being from actor Daniel Craig.
Victoria Papworth, CEO of NatWest Social & Community Capital, said: 'Each year, the SE100 list reminds us of the extraordinary impact that social enterprises have across the UK.
'These organisations are not only tackling some of society’s toughest challenges – they’re doing so with creativity, compassion, and lasting impact.'
Brimscombe Mill has also revealed its 2025 social impact report, sharing key highlights from the year such as the mill welcoming nearly 200,000 visitors; the Long Table serving over 40,000 pay-as-you-can or free meals; 152 tonnes of furniture reused through Home Remedy; 334 families supported through Kids Stuff; and nearly 250 community activities and events held on-site.
Tom Herbert, chair of Brimscombe Mill CBS, said: '2024 tested us to breaking point, but love won.
'This impact report shows what happens when a community chooses to show up with courage, care and collaboration.'
'Brimscombe Mill is proud to be in the prestigious NatWest SE100 Index 2025, a national celebration of the most impactful and resilient mission-led businesses in the country.'
