The UK saw 87 companies registered in March 2012 with names that include the word ‘social’.

Formations company Duport Associates uncovered the data using its Companies House-approved software, and said that the previous record of new ‘social’ company formations was 83 in March 2011.

The companies include Catch22 Social Enterprise Solutions, Bel Social Care, Social Tributaries, Like It Social Media and AJ Pope Social Work.

Prime Minister David Cameron recently launched Big Society Capital to boost the funds available for social investment.

Duport Associates’ managing director Peter Valaitis called social enterprise a “booming industry” and believes that the availability of social media and networks to raise awareness of issues and to network is another factor that has contributed to this record increase.

“Twitter, blogs, Facebook and online marketing are all popular methods of generating a buzz for your issue, your company or to simply connect with and communicate with customers," he said. “The internet is a vital tool for any social enterprise – it’s simply the most effective way to communicate a message and to encourage others to get involved.”