The Social Value Model and UK Government procurement – A case study

Published on 2 October 2024

This case describes the instrumental and capacity building impact of the Social Value Model, developed by social researchers within the UK Government, on UK Government procurement.

In line with the Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012, public authorities in England and Wales (with some exemptions) must consider the impact of procurement practices to bettering economic, social and environmental value. As a result, a joint team across the Cabinet Office, Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and the Crown Representative for charities, public service mutuals and social enterprises (VSCEs) developed the Social Value Model. This drew on examples of best practice from local government and in engagement with relevant stakeholders following a public consultation.

The Social Value Model must be implemented at all stages of the procurement lifecycle as of 2021, using the HM Treasury Green Book. It influences decisions around approximately £49 billion of public spending per annum. The Model sets out five themes to be considered in tenders and procurement for policy outcomes:

  • COVID-19 recovery
  • Tackling economic inequality
  • Fighting climate change
  • Equal opportunity
  • Wellbeing

As well as providing all parts of the UK Government with a standardised way of measuring and evaluating social value, it has become central to all UK government activities, including the Sellafield nuclear site, where greater attention has been paid to ensuring local benefits of the site, the Home Office and the Crown Commercial Service.

Additional benefits are in reducing environmental impacts of procurement and tackling modern slavery in Government supply chains.

One of a series of case study examples that demonstrates the value of Environmental Social Science in research and practice. More info