The council aims for every pound spent to deliver added value for local people, from creating jobs and apprenticeships to supporting community projects and environmental initiatives. Suppliers are already delivering a range of social value commitments through existing contracts, including helping residents into work and developing skills, supporting disadvantaged groups, boosting the local economy by supporting local businesses, giving back to communities through volunteering and charitable support, and driving environmental improvements through sustainability and carbon reduction activities.
These outcomes are monitored through a social value reporting platform to ensure commitments are delivered and that local communities benefit from the council's spending. The updated policy maintains a minimum 10% social value weighting for contracts worth £100,000 or more. It places greater emphasis on the quality and deliverability of social value commitments, offers more flexibility in assessment and measurement, and strengthens monitoring, reporting, and accountability.
“"Social value helps us make the most of every pound we spend by ensuring our contracts deliver benefits for local communities, as well as the services we purchase. Whether that's creating jobs and training opportunities, supporting local businesses and community organisations, creating opportunities for people who may face barriers to employment, encouraging volunteering, or improving the environment, we want our contracts to make a positive difference for Central Bedfordshire residents."
Councillor Baker added that the updated policy strengthens the council's approach and helps ensure suppliers make commitments that support its priorities and deliver real benefits for local people. The policy supports key council priorities, including thriving communities, economic growth, local employment, environmental sustainability, and reducing inequalities across Central Bedfordshire.
By embedding social value in procurement, the council aims to maximise the positive impact of its spending, contributing to job creation, community support, environmental improvement, and better outcomes for residents.
