THE spotlight this week is on the four firms shortlisted for the final in the University College, Winchester, Award for business in the Community category of the Winchester Business Excellence Awards.

KUDOS EMPLOYMENT: This Hampshire-wide charity, based in Winchester, provides assistance to adults, with learning disabilities, who wish to seek employment. The formula that Kudos follow is that, by allowing a person to have successes and positive experiences at work, he or she will gain new confidence in other areas of their lives. Kudos Employment clients currently contribute about 95,000 working hours a year to the economy and business community of Hampshire.

WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL VISITORS' CENTRE: Since the centre started in 1993, with the Cathedral Refectory and shop, £2.2m net profit has been generated for the Winchester Chapter. Through its 30 volunteers in the shop and over 80 parishes involved in the Refectory, the centre engages community support by regular communication, membership drives, cream teas, special lunches and team leader meetings.

THE SLUG and LETTUCE: First opened in 1998, this modern, city centre bar works with the local community activities and projects. The Slug and Lettuce is a member of Winchester PubWatch; has an active role in assisting with the Winchester Hat Fair; has donated over £1,000 to charities so far this year and is currently assisting a collective of schools with a sixth-form project. It has also built good ties with University College, Winchester, and Winchester School of Art.

WINCHESTER HOUSING GROUP: The group provides housing and support for those unable to meet their needs in the open housing market. It is fully committed to involving tenants in all that it does, offering support and assisting with the management of homes and community activities. The community initiatives officer encourages tenants to participate in free training groups and social events where they can meet with other tenants and share ideas and experiences.