are you 'social value' ready?
- Bid Essentials
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 24
Big changes are coming to social value in UK public sector tenders – and if you're bidding, you’ll want to be ready.
What’s Changing?
Although Social Value is already included in most tenders, from the 1st October 2025, public sector buyers MUST ensure they apply the updated Social Value Model in all future procurement processes. This is part of the Procurement Act 2023, which came into force on the 24th February 2025.
In addition to the Social Value Model, those working in the Health Care Sector should note the newly released NHS Social Value Playbook, which guides buyers on Social Value in procurement.
What Does That Mean for You?
If you're bidding for public sector work, you'll need to:
Use the new Social Value Model (or NHS Playbook if applicable) to shape your answers
Pick outcomes that match the contract and local needs
Answer specific social value questions
Make clear, measurable commitments (no vague promises!)
Show who benefits – local residents, care leavers, veterans or local communities
Social value will now make up approx. 10–30% of your total score, so getting it right really matters.
Key Themes
Most public bodies focus on:
Economic inequality – helping disadvantaged groups
Climate action – reducing environmental impact
Equal opportunity – promoting inclusion
Wellbeing – supporting health and the local community
What to include in your response
Research - use intelligence on what the client's Social Value goals are - seek out their Social Value policy and strategy
A clear plan – what you’ll do, how you’ll do it, and who’s responsible. It's a good idea to appoint a 'Social Value Champion' within your organisation and name them
Evidence and quantify your impact - one of the more common measurement frameworks used is The Social Value Portal's TOMs (Themes, Outcomes, Measures) where you can assign £££'s to your commitments and have your evidence validated!
Local focus - show how your work supports local jobs, SMEs, or community groups
Environmental action - think carbon reduction, green transport or waste minimisation.
Inclusive employment - commit to hiring from underrepresented groups or offering apprenticeships
Ongoing reporting - mention tools like The Social Value Portal's TOMS or dashboards to track delivery
Show data, KPIs met on previous contracts, photos and case studies
The best answers are clear, specific and backed by action – not fluff!
Why It’s Worth It
It’s not just about winning bids. A strong social value strategy builds trust, boosts your brand and makes your team proud.
Plus, doing good feels good!
Do you have a Social Value Strategy?
If not, now’s the time to prepare one. A good strategy shows you’re serious about making a difference and should include:
A few key focus areas (eg. jobs, sustainability, wellbeing)
Measurable goals and a way to track them
A lead person to drive it forward (Social Value Champion)
Involvement from your team
Partnerships with local groups
Proof of impact
Regular reviews to keep it fresh and assess what worked and what didn't
10 Easy Ways to Deliver Social Value
Hire locally
Offer apprenticeships
Support local community enterprises
Cut your carbon footprint
Support mental health
Donate to local causes
Encourage staff volunteering
Buy from ethical suppliers
Help people get online
Share your skills through mentoring
Ready to Start?
Make social value part of your business goals
Nominate someone to lead it
Use tools like TOMs to measure impact
Keep reviewing and improving
Get in touch with Bid Essentials for more help and advice on delivering social value.
