EU (European Union) support for responsible business in the region could help to provide quality jobs, experts have suggested.

Supporting entrepreneurship within Europe, the Social Business Initiative and the Corporate Social Responsibility strategy proposed by the European Commission will help to improve the contribution companies make to the general well-being of society.

Furthermore, it is hoped these measures will improve trust and customer confidence in the business sector in general.

Laszlo Andor, commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, said: "This is where social business can have a decisive impact and thus also contribute to Europe's 2020 goals of more jobs and growth."

He added that values such as inclusiveness, integrity, sustainability and solidarity among socially responsible businesses will help to improve the European economy as a whole following the worldwide financial downturn.

A recent European Parliament report suggested EU member states should assist single mothers by setting up new family centers, which could provide them with advice, education and temporary accommodation.

Posted by Alex Donnell