Posted 31st May 2024
The integration of social value in procurement has undoubtedly seen progress. However, there’s still considerable ground to cover. From government policy and strategy development to procurement and contract management, gaps persist, resulting in negative impacts on both people and the environment, as can be seen by a rise in social issues – see below.
- Poverty has increased to affect 14.5 million people in the UK in 2023 (JRF)
- Income inequality has worsened (ONS)
- There are over 309,000 people currently homeless (Shelter)
- Mental health referrals are up by 50% since 2013 (NHS)
- There is an increase in waiting times to access healthcare and poor outcomes (Health Foundation)
- Domestic violence incidents are up by 63%
- Knife crime is up by 80%
- There are record highs in drug-related deaths and alcohol-related hospital admissions
Enter our new Procurement Thought Leadership Group, an initiative designed to bolster the strides already made by the members of Social Value UK. Building upon the foundation laid by our Contract for Change project, our mission is clear: To ensure that social value and the principles of social value are applied at every stage of the commissioning cycle.
Our objectives are ambitious yet achievable:
- Empowering Public Sector Organisations: We strive to equip public sector organisations with the tools and insights necessary to make informed decisions and maximise the social value that they generate within communities.
- Enhancing Strategic Commissioning: By advocating for the integration of social value at every stage of the commissioning cycle, we aim to improve the strategic approach to commissioning, ensuring it meets the needs of people and communities.
Drawing on our past accomplishments we will curate and disseminate best practices, craft thought-provoking member position papers on procurement to influence policy, and increase skills and knowledge in the public sector.
Joining forces with members and non-members alike, we are looking to work with individuals from diverse sectors, each bringing their unique expertise in social value and public sector reform to the table.
Together, let’s champion the cause of social value at the heart of commissioning.
Calling all members and non-members that have expertise in social value and public sector reform.
- Share Best Practice: Contribute your insights and experiences to social value and commissioning.
- Support Skills Development: Help us nurture talent in the public sector.
- Embed Social Value Principles: Together, let’s ingrain the principles of social value into the very fabric of procurement and commissioning.
- Influence Policy: Help shape Social Value policy and position papers for the Government.
Ready to make a tangible difference?
Express your interest today: https://form.jotform.com/240862629367062