Pictured above: Kevin Hayes and Pamela Wood

A Birmingham training provider that has transformed the lives of thousands of vulnerable people has become one of the first organisations in the country to be awarded the prestigious Social Enterprise Mark.

Enta, described as the city's best kept secret, has received the stamp of endorsement that tells people that a product or service comes from a social enterprise, and is therefore creating a social or environmental benefit.

The not-for-profit organisation targets disadvantaged communities and provides a real life chance for young mothers, single fathers, the long-term unemployed, school leavers with little prospect of finding work, people with mental health issues and those responsible for offending behaviour.  All proceeds from Enta's pioneering work are channelled back into the local community for the ongoing benefit of the community.

Kevin Hayes, Chief Executive of Enta, said: "We are extremely proud and honoured to receive the Social Enterprise Mark.

"For more than 30 years we have strived to help those that are most in need of support. Enta is committed to assisting local people into employment, enabling local communities to thrive and prosper."

He added: "Receiving the Social Enterprise Mark is recognition that not only are we achieving our social goals, but as a business we are succeeding too."

Enta was launched as a training agency in 1977, but has since grown to meet the demands of the communities it serves.

It recently moved into refurbished premises at Mill Wharf and now offers modern conference facilities, a canal-side training café - staffed by teenagers keen to find long-term employment in the hospitality industry, vocational workshops, an IT centre and a careers library. A day care nursery enabling parents to return to work is set to open this summer. The organisation also runs the Lakeside Children's and Family Learning Centre in Kingstanding.

Lucy Findlay, managing director of the Social Enterprise Mark Company, said: "We are delighted to award the prestigious Social Enterprise Mark to Enta CIC. Social enterprises come in all shapes and forms so it's great to see a vital, local training organisation understanding the importance of being part of the wider social enterprise brand. It will help Enta promote their business ethics and values."