Social Value Bill

Northern Ireland is currently the only part of the UK without such legislation and it is time for this to change. The Crown Commercial Service defines social value in procurement as “ensuring that public spending generates additional economic, social and environmental benefits beyond just the goods or services being procured.” In other words, it’s about delivering procurement that positively impacts people and communities beyond the scope of the contract.


 

The proposed legislation would:
 
1. Ensure all public bodies demonstrate and maximise social value in their spending decisions, with a minimum weighting of 10 per cent. 

2. Create consistency by ensuring social value is measured and reported. 

3. Provide training for commissioners and procurement professionals to enhance their delivery of social value. 

4. Require the Department to create simple tools for SMEs, social enterprises and charities to learn, implement and measure social value.

 

Complete the consultation here.

Or contact [email protected] for a paper copy of the consultation document.

The consultation runs for 12 weeks and closes on 23rd April 2024. Ensure you have your say before then.