Social enterprises often work with ‘unpopular’ groups in their communities. In some cases, the stigma attached to these groups can transfer to the organizations that support them.

In this talk, Neil and Paul will discuss what happened when a social enterprise in the East of England – Keystone – became stigmatized for providing support services to migrant workers in the area.

Paul was a researcher engaged in a participant observation study at Keystone, while Neil was its Chief Executive. Paul will describe what he saw when he entered the organization, focusing on the tensions that he observed and the organizational crisis they generated. Neil will reflect on his experiences of leading Keystone in this most challenging period, and how he and the leadership responded to the crisis.

Building on their experiences, they will consider the broader implications of the Keystone story for social purpose organizations that work with marginalized stakeholders.