Social Value UK

Category: Blog

  • What Does Social Value Mean in the Context of Political Action?

    What Does Social Value Mean in the Context of Political Action?

    By: Isabelle Parasram OBE
    Date: 02 October 2024

    As we follow the discussions at the Labour Party Conference this week, it’s crucial to bring attention to the broader conversation around social value, especially the aspects that may not always make the headlines.

    One area gaining traction is Labour’s commitment to enhancing local economic development, a topic that could significantly influence the creation of social value. By promoting investment in community businesses, Labour’s plans could pave the way for a shift towards a more inclusive and sustainable economic model. Supporting cooperatives and social enterprises could not only foster community empowerment but also create a more resilient local economy. This focus on grassroots economic initiatives aligns strongly with social value principles, promoting fair opportunities and long-term community benefits.

    Embedding Social Value in Public Procurement

    A standout proposal from Labour is the integration of social value metrics into public procurement processes. This move aims to ensure that public spending doesn’t just deliver on economic efficiency but also promotes fairness, equity, and social responsibility. By requiring suppliers to consider their social impact, Labour is encouraging a more holistic approach to public contracts—one that aligns with the principles we champion at the Institute for Social Value.

    By embedding social value into procurement processes, Labour’s approach could lead to more responsible corporate behaviour and better outcomes for local communities. It’s a significant step towards ensuring that public funds are used not just for infrastructure or services but to foster broader societal benefits.

    Mental Health: A Critical Component of Social Value

    Another important aspect of Labour’s platform is its focus on mental health services. By prioritising funding and support for mental health, Labour acknowledges the crucial link between well-being and productivity. This approach recognises that mental health is not just a standalone issue but one that intersects with broader social, economic, and community factors.

    Investing in mental health services has the potential to improve quality of life, reduce societal pressures, and create a healthier, more productive population. It’s a vital part of building a thriving society, where individuals can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the economy, reinforcing the social value principles we hold dear.

    A Non-Partisan Approach to Social Responsibility

    As a politically neutral organisation, The Institute for Social Value (formerly Social Value UK) supports any movement that works towards a more socially responsible policy framework, regardless of political affiliation. Our goal is to ensure that social value is considered in all aspects of policy, from economic development to health and well-being, to public spending.

    The discussions at the Labour Party Conference present an opportunity to reflect on how social value can be integrated into political action. Whether through community-focused economic policies, socially responsible procurement, or mental health initiatives, these proposals have the potential to shape a more equitable and sustainable future.

  • Labour’s Policy Proposals: A Step Towards Social Value or Room for Improvement?

    Labour’s Policy Proposals: A Step Towards Social Value or Room for Improvement?

    Author: Isabelle Parasram OBE

    Date: 25th September, 2024

    At the Institute for Social Value (formerly Social Value UK), we’ve been keeping a close eye on the recent Labour Party Conference. As an organisation committed to remaining politically neutral, we nonetheless recognise the significant impact that political events like these can have on the UK’s social, economic, and environmental landscape. The policies discussed and decisions made can shape our collective future and influence how social value is embedded across different sectors.

    One key question on our minds is this: Are Labour’s policy proposals optimising social value, or could more be done to ensure long-term societal benefits?

    Housing: More Than Just a Numbers Game

    Labour’s ambitious plan to build 1.5 million homes over the next five years has garnered a lot of attention. While this pledge is a direct response to the ongoing housing crisis, it also presents a unique opportunity to embed social value at every stage of the process.

    These homes could be more than just solutions to the lack of affordable housing. They could become the foundation for stronger communities, offering not only shelter but also fostering social cohesion, creating skilled local jobs, and promoting sustainable living solutions. By designing these developments with a focus on enhancing well-being and environmental sustainability, Labour has the potential to deliver far more than just bricks and mortar.

    However, to truly maximise social value, the focus must go beyond simply addressing the housing shortage. How these homes are built, who benefits from them, and whether they contribute to the long-term resilience of communities will be critical factors in determining their social impact.

    Green Energy Revolution: Social Value in Sustainability

    Another bold policy on Labour’s agenda is their commitment to scrap new fossil fuel licences and spearhead a green energy revolution. This move could play a pivotal role in reducing energy poverty, creating jobs in the burgeoning green economy, and addressing the pressing challenges of climate change.

    By transitioning to renewable energy, Labour has the potential to create a more equitable and sustainable energy system. Jobs in green industries could revitalise communities, particularly in areas that have been hit hard by the decline of traditional industries. Additionally, reducing energy poverty could ease the financial burden on many households, promoting a fairer and more inclusive society.

    While this is a bold and necessary step, it’s essential that the transition to green energy is inclusive. Ensuring that workers in fossil fuel industries are supported and retrained for new opportunities in the green economy will be vital to ensuring that the shift benefits everyone.

    Health Proposals: Aiming for Better Care

    Labour’s health policies are equally ambitious. Proposals to double the number of district nurses and provide quicker GP appointments have the potential to improve care quality, reduce pressure on hospitals, and promote better health outcomes across the nation.

    By investing in community health services, Labour could create a more resilient healthcare system that prioritises preventative care and reduces hospital admissions. In turn, this could improve the overall well-being of the population and relieve the strain on the NHS, ensuring that healthcare is accessible and effective for all.

    However, as with any ambitious proposal, the success of these plans will hinge on their implementation. Adequate funding, training, and resources will be essential to ensuring these new roles meet the needs of the population and deliver long-term social value.

    VAT on Private School Fees: A Social Value Dilemma?

    One of Labour’s more controversial proposals is the introduction of VAT on private school fees. This policy aims to redistribute resources and potentially provide additional funding for state schools. However, critics argue that it could lead to increased demand for state school places, putting additional strain on an already overstretched system.

    From a social value perspective, this policy raises important questions. Does it promote fairness and equality, or does it risk exacerbating educational inequalities by further stretching state school resources? While the intention may be to level the playing field, the long-term social impact of such a policy must be carefully considered.

    A Non-Partisan Approach to Social Value

    At the Institute for Social Value, we believe that every policy, from any political party, should be judged not only by its immediate economic outcomes but by the long-term social impact it delivers. Whether it’s housing, energy, healthcare, or education, policies should be evaluated based on their ability to improve the well-being of individuals and communities.

    We are committed to working with stakeholders across the political spectrum to ensure that the principles of social value are embedded in future policy decisions. It’s not just about short-term fixes or economic gains—it’s about creating a fairer, more resilient society for the long term.

    So, what do you think of Labour’s proposals? Are they truly prioritising social value, or could they go further?

  • Navigating the Landscape of Sustainability Standards: Where Social Value UK Fits In.

    Navigating the Landscape of Sustainability Standards: Where Social Value UK Fits In.

    By Natasha Jolob, Member Services Director, SVUK 

    Introduction 

    The landscape of sustainability standards can be complex, with a myriad of frameworks and guidelines available. It’s often challenging to know which path to follow. At Social Value UK (SVUK), we understand this challenge and can help you navigate it. This blog explains where we fit into the broader landscape, what we offer, and how our services can benefit you. 

    Social Value UK and Our Role in Sustainability Standards 

    Social Value UK is a Joint Member Network of Social Value International (SVI), the Global Network for Social Value and Impact Management. SVI brings together practitioners, organisations and changemakers from around the world with a shared mission to change the way the world accounts for value. 

    This shared mission is guided by the Principles of Social Value, which enable any organisation, regardless of size or sector to understand and report on their social impacts. Following the Principles gives organisations the understanding they need to create as much social impact as possible with the resources available. 

    The Principles are: 

    • Principle 1: Involve Stakeholders – Inform what gets measured and how this is measured and valued in an account of social value by involving stakeholders.  
    • Principle 2: Understand What Changes – Articulate how change is created and evaluate this through evidence gathered, recognising positive and negative changes as well as those that are intended and unintended. 
    • Principle 3: Value the Things That Matter – Making decisions about allocating resources between different options needs to recognise the values of stakeholders. Value refers to the relative importance of different outcomes. It is informed by stakeholders’ preferences. 
    • Principle 4: Only Include What Is Material – Establish the boundaries of what information and evidence must be included in an account of value to give a true and fair picture, and one that is based on the evidence from stakeholders so decisions taken focus on the changes that matter. 
    • Principle 5: Do Not Overclaim – Only claim the value that activities are responsible for creating. 
    • Principle 6: Be Transparent – Demonstrate the basis on which the analysis may be considered accurate and honest, and show that it will be reported to and discussed with stakeholders. 
    • Principle 7: Verify the Result – Ensure appropriate verification of results in line with the decisions being supported. In cases where results are being reported to external audiences and/or are supporting significant decisions, independent assurance is required. 
    • Principle 8: Be Responsive – Pursue optimum Social Value based on decision making that is timely and supported by appropriate accounting and reporting. 

    As a global standard setter, SVI helps ensure consistency in social value reporting and assurance which is in line with the Principles. SVUK delivers Report Assurance services and offers a Professional Development Pathway on behalf of SVI as well as an organisational quality assurance service (Social Value Management Certificate). To better understand where SVI and SVUK’s quality assurance services fit into the sustainability standards landscape, see this visual guide (courtesy of SVI): 

    Our Quality Assurance Services 

    1 Report Assurance  

    One of the key Principles of Social Value is Principle 7 – Verify the Result. This Principle underscores the importance of independent assurance when reporting results to external audiences or making significant decisions. 

    What is Report Assurance? 

    Report assurance is an independent review of a Social Return on Investment (SROI) or Social Impact report by qualified assessors. The goal is to ensure that the report demonstrates a solid understanding of the Principles of Social Value and practices. 

    Assurance is principles-based, meaning it focuses on adherence to the Principles rather than verifying stakeholder engagement, data, or calculations. 

    The Purpose of Assurance 

    1. Prove: Demonstrate that your practice meets the international standard for accounting for social value. 
    1. Improve: Enhance your practice through feedback and support from the assessor and the SVI team. 

    Why is Report Assurance Important? 

    Independent assurance is essential in cases where: 

    • Results are reported to external stakeholders. 
    • Significant decisions that impact people and planet are made based on the reported data. 

    Who is Report Assurance For? 

    • Practitioners on a professional pathway seeking individual accreditation (as part of Level 2 and Level 3 applications). 
    • Organisations looking for external verification of their impact reporting. 

    Report Assurance Criteria 

    • Assessment Against the 7 Principles of Social Value: The standard will soon include Principle 8. 
    • Assurance Standard and Feedback: Provided in a checklist format for both the applicant and assessor. 
    • Implementation Time: Based on the assessor’s judgments, it’s crucial to engage in feedback discussions. 

    How to Apply for Report Assurance 

    The application process can be found here.

    2 Social Value Management Certificate 

    Social Value UK also offers a Social Value Management Certificate with three levels of achievement: 

    • Level One: Commit: Achieved by committing to managing social value in alignment with the SVI Framework and Social Value Principles. 
    • Level Two: Implement: Achieved by implementing social value management practices. 
    • Level Three: Manage: Achieved through continuous practice leading to decision-making changes aimed at maximizing social value. 

    The application process is straightforward – and involves the completion of an evidence form, submission of supporting documents and improvement planning which can be implemented within a three-month amendment period. See here for more information.

    3 Individual Accreditation 

    In addition, by being part of the SVI global network we offer a professional development pathway and CPD qualification that accredits social value practitioners. There are currently three levels of Accreditation that involve the following:   

    • An exam 
    • Successful completion of an accredited training programme 
    • Submission of an overview Statement of Interest and Commitment to Social Value, Impact Management and Social Impact Assessment or SROI 
    • Writing a Social Value Report  
    • An interview with the Assurance Team  

    See here for more information.

    Social Value UK also offers other quality assurance support services to help you along the way: 

    • Report Review Service: Submit any report to Social Value UK for feedback on applying Social Value Principles and identifying areas for improvement. 
    • Pre-Report Assurance Outcomes Check: This optional service critiques the practice undertaken to define your analysis outcomes. 
    • Tailored Support: We offer tailored support and workshops for members and non-members, using SVI-qualified practitioners and impact management experts. 
    • Peer Support: As an SVI member, you’re encouraged to gain support from other members through regional meetings, webinars, and the online community. 

    Conclusion 

    Navigating sustainability standards can be daunting, but by accessing Social Value UK’s quality assurance services, you will meet international standards and be on the right track to continuously improve your practice. Whether you’re a practitioner seeking accreditation or an organisation looking for verification, we are here to support you every step of the way. 

  • Choosing the Right Social Value Training: Getting Started with Social Value and Social Value and SROI Practitioner Training

    Choosing the Right Social Value Training: Getting Started with Social Value and Social Value and SROI Practitioner Training

    Curious about Social Value but unsure which training is right for you? At Social Value UK, we offer two training options to help you develop the skills you need: our Getting Started with Social Value course, and our comprehensive Social Value and SROI Practitioner Training. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide which is best for you.

    Getting Started with Social Value

    Perfect for those new to Social Value:

    Duration: Two 2.5-hour sessions over 2 days

    Cost: £200/£250 + VAT for members/non-members

    Focus: Core principles and key concepts

    Best for: Those seeking a general overview or who commission Social Value reports

    Key Benefits:

    A quick, cost-effective introduction to Social Value

    Ideal for busy professionals looking for a concise overview

    Learn more here.

     

    Social Value and SROI Practitioner Training

    For those ready to dive deeper and become Social Value professionals and learn more about Social Return on Investment (SROI):

    Duration: Five 4-hour sessions over 5 days, plus assignments

    Cost: Starting at £675 + VAT

    Focus: In-depth SROI and impact measurement methodologies

    Best for: Those aiming to lead Social Value projects or conduct SROI analyses

    Key Benefits:

    Detailed training in SROI calculations and best practices

    Hands-on learning, setting you up for SVI assurance standard compliance

    Mandatory for progressing to Level 2 Accredited Practitioner status and Level 3 Advanced Practitioner status.

    Learn more here.

     

    Which Training is Right for You?

    Choose Getting Started with Social Value if you’re:

    · New to Social Value and need a foundational understanding

    · Limited on time but want a solid introduction

    · More focused on commissioning rather than producing reports

    Choose Social Value and SROI Practitioner Training if you:

    · Plan to lead Social Value initiatives or perform SROI analyses

    · Want to build expertise in impact measurement

    · Are serious about a career in Social Value and plan to progress professionally

     

    While Getting Started with Social Value is a great entry point, if you’re set on becoming a Social Value expert, Social Value and SROI Practitioner Training offers the comprehensive knowledge you need to achieve your goals.

    Ready to get started? Register now and take the next step in your Social Value journey!

  • Improve Your Social Value Reports

    Improve Your Social Value Reports

  • Member spotlight – Mantell Gwynedd

    Member spotlight – Mantell Gwynedd

    Mantell Gwynedd is a County Voluntary Council based in northwest Wales. They have been members with Social Value UK since 2014 and established Social Value Cymru in the same year. Social Value Cymru provides social value support, advice and consultancy services to third sector organisations across Gwynedd and beyond.

    Mantell’s activities are varied and numerous including developing and supporting volunteering, representing the third sector and collaborating with partners, supporting organisations with their governance, financial and engagement arrangements, referring individuals to relevant services, a social prescription service in the Arfon area and giving guidance for organisations on how to measure their social value…… and much more!

    As an organisation, Mantell Gwynedd wanted to ensure that the principles were embedded into the organisation and develop a culture of impact management. Social Value is becoming an integral part of the governance and management of Mantell Gwynedd on a strategic and operational basis. Crucially, we are able to measure, monitor, consider and assess our activities from the perspective of users and partners; and to plan our future activities in order to maximise the positive effect on people we work with or offer a service to them.

    The first project that we measured was our social prescribing project, and we have produced an annual social impact report on this project since 2016. Having engaged with stakeholders it was clear that the outcomes that needed to be managed were loneliness, mental health and physical health. The indicators used for managing these are a subjective wellbeing scale which demonstrates the change that people have experienced through the support. Some objective scales have also been used such as reduced GP visits. In the 2022-23 report, 93% of those who completed the service said they felt less alone. The benefits of measuring and managing the impact of this project are:

    • The social Prescription SROI’s have enabled us to better understand the outcomes to individuals using the service.
    • Applying the principle of ‘value what matters’ allows us to better understand what is most important for our users and informs our decision making
    • The principle of ‘do not over claim’ has helped us to understand where we create most value and also identified where we can collaborate better with others
    • The continued need and demand for the project is clear and based on the social impact information collated. The number of referrals to the project through various NHS departments demonstrates that the Community Link Officer is taking pressure off the local health board while building a solid foundation of trust with the healthcare professionals.

    Mantell has held a Level 1 Social Value Management Certificate since 2019 and during the period from 2020 through the period of Covid restrictions, the organisation built on its frameworks and plans in order to put more thorough operating methods in place across all the company’s activities. Following the submission of the application for Level 2 in October 2023, a detailed assessment was carried out by SVI, and Mantell was awarded a Level 2 Certificate on 11 December 2023.

    This has been a long process, and we still have much to do to ensure that we have truly embedded the principles across all out activities. What was unexpected was how the process has helped staff to better understand the impact they have within communities and how this has motivated them to be involved in measuring impact themselves.

    The SVI method allows organisation to capture the real story of change without limitations. It gives us the whole story including anything negative or unexpected that happens through our activities, which allows us to better plan and make more informed decisions.

    “In the long run, implementing Level 2 Social Value is a means for Mantell to use the input of real people to influence and improve our activities for the benefit of users and partners.” – Trystan Pritchard, Mantell Gwynedd Chairman and Social Value Champion on the board

    Learn more about Mantell Gwynedd and the work they do here.

    Find out more about the SVMC here.

  • Member Consultation – Survey & Consultation Session.

    Member Consultation – Survey & Consultation Session.

    We want to hear your views on Social Value UK’s affiliation with Social Value International.

    FAQs 

    How is SVUK currently set up? 

    Social Value UK (SVUK) was established in 2007 as a company limited by guarantee and is a membership organisation with both individual and organisational members from the UK.  

    How is SVI currently set up? 

    Social Value International (SVI) was established in 2011 and is a charity registered in England.  

    What is SVI’s role internationally? 

    SVI is a membership organisation with a mission to change the way the world accounts for value through Principles, People, Practice and Power. SVI supports the growth of affiliated national membership networks and currently has members in over 60 countries. Through international collaboration, SVI develops the Principles of Social Value and set best practices standards for impact management, SROI or ‘accounting for value’. SVI oversees an internationally recognised Professional Pathway for social value practitioners as well as a report assurance framework and software accreditation services, amongst other things.  

    How are SVUK members connected with SVI? 

    By joining SVUK, our members also become SVI members and can access the benefits that SVI offers. SVUK members may not necessarily be aware of all that they can access via our affiliation with SVI – there are many and these are listed in the survey below or here. We hope, via this consultation, to find out which particular benefits SVUK members value and what benefits they might like to see offered in the future. We would also like to find out what, if anything, could be improved. 

    Why are you holding this consultation at this stage? 

    As part of our Joint Member Network Agreement with SVI, we must pay SVI a percentage of our revenue from the SVI services that we deliver (SVI Accredited Social Value & SROI Training, SVI Report Assurance, Levels 1-3 on the Professional Pathway, SVI membership). These fees are reinvested by SVI in developing these services and advancing the mission internationally. The purpose of this consultation is to collect your views on our affiliation with SVI and to understand the value you place on accessing SVI services through SVUK so that we can continue to shape our relationship with SVI in mutually beneficial ways. 

    Will SVI be involved in this consultation? 

    Ben Carpenter (CEO of SVI) will be attending the member consultation session to share a presentation explaining more about what SVI offers to SVUK members. We will also be sharing some of the (anonymised) data we collect with SVI. 

    How can I contribute my views? 

    If interested, please complete the survey HERE by 5 pm on Wednesday 5th June, 2024. You can also book to be part of an online consultation session scheduled for Wednesday 19th June 2024 from 1 pm-2 pm. Click HERE to register. For this session to go ahead, minimum numbers will be required.   

    What are the key dates I have to remember? 

    Wednesday 5th June, 2014 – 5pm: Deadline for survey completion  

    Wednesday 12th June, 2024 – 5pm: Deadline for booking to attend online consultation   

    Wednesday 19th June, 2024, 1pm-2pm: Online consultation session   

  • Notice of Extraordinary General Meeting – Change of Company Name.

    Notice of Extraordinary General Meeting – Change of Company Name.

    We are holding an extraordinary general meeting on Wednesday 19th June, 2024 at 2pm to consider and, if deemed fit, pass the following as a special resolution:  

    SPECIAL RESOLUTION – That the name of the Company be changed from Social Value Network UK to The Institute for Social Value with immediate effect (subject to approval by Companies House). 

    FAQS

    Is the idea of becoming an Institute a recent or sudden proposal? 

    The idea of becoming an Institute was first raised by one of our Board members over a year ago and, since then, we have been re-establishing ourselves in that vein. We are now in a position where we are ready to take some next steps, one of which is a change in our name. This will reflect the call for us to step into the lead on social value within the UK in a much more formal and inclusive way. 

    Why the change of name at all? 

    Although we have created a community for everyone interested in social value and impact management, this message could be made clearer in our organisational setup and branding.  

    We are of the view that a change of name is an essential foundation to a change of positioning for SVUK to reflect what we have evolved into since we were established nearly 20 years ago.  

    What was the original setup of SVUK? 

    Social Value UK (SVUK) was originally established in 2007 in Scotland as a membership organisation, then known as ‘The SROI Network’. It represented a group of individuals who advocated for the Social Return on Investment framework – a way of measuring the impact of decisions beyond the balance sheet, pioneered by our experts. 

    How has SVUK evolved? 

    Since 2007, SVUK has evolved into a membership network that offers training, accreditation, report review and assurance, development of best practice, advocacy, thought leadership, a consultants’ directory, events and much more. Whilst we have become more inclusive and accepting of models other than SROI, we have not necessarily communicated that effectively. We also have some work to do on creating an organisational ethos that is more representative of the array of offerings that support informed choice and decision making by those who come to us and to our members for assistance with social value and impact management. 

    What is SVUK’s current ‘organisational personality’? 

    See our ‘Vision, Mission, Eight Principles of Social Value and Strategic Objectives’ here and our ‘Theory of Change’ here.

    Will we continue to be a membership organisation? 

    Yes – it’s the core of what we do! 

    Will we be carrying out the same activities as we do now if we become an Institute? 

    We have no plans to fundamentally change what we do: networking, training, assurance, accreditation, advocacy, events and so on. But we do plan to do them better! As we progress down this path, we are finding that members and other stakeholders are taking the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas in a way that they haven’t before. We will be acting on this feedback in a measured and structured way. 

    Have you discussed this with Social Value International (SVI)? 

    Yes, Ben Carpenter (CEO) of SVI is supportive of this step and we have been in almost daily contact with him since taking this decision. He will be attending the EGM to help answer any questions from SVI’s point of view. SVI encourage all affiliated networks to create open and accessible networks that use the Principles of Social Value as a framing for any tools, or frameworks for Impact Management and Accounting for Value. 

    Will we continue to be part of SVI? 

    We had already set up a consultation in relation to our relationship with SVI before circumstances developed that meant our proposal to become an Institute had to be brought forward.  

    The two member consultations are not linked, even though they fall at the same time and both impact our future.  

    See our other blog for details of our consultation on our relationship with SVI, which is broadly geared towards finding out how we can build upon an already mutually beneficial relationship. 

    How can I share my views on this? 

    Please submit your views via JotForm here. 

    How can I vote? 

    Join us on Wednesday 19th June, 2024 at 2pm for an extraordinary general meeting of Social Value UK, to be held online via Zoom. Please register your attendance here. A proxy voting form is available here. 

  • Placing Social Value at the Heart of Public Sector Commissioning

    Placing Social Value at the Heart of Public Sector Commissioning

    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:

    1. 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.
    1. 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

  • First TLG Meeting on Translating Environment into Social Value

    First TLG Meeting on Translating Environment into Social Value

    In its inaugural meeting on April 9th, Social Value UK’s Thought Leadership Group (TLG) led by esteemed members SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK and Ridge & Partners, embarked on an exploration aimed at enhancing understanding of the environmental pillar of sustainability within the context of social value.

    This TLG’s objective aligns with the purpose of the Principles to lead inclusion of social, environmental and economic value in decision-making. As our wellbeing is reliant upon the natural world, the TLG seeks to discuss social value practice that effectively recognises and responds to this crucial aspect of our survival.

    After a welcome from us (Social Value UK), Yulia from Social Value International kicked off the discussion by highlighting the imperative of understanding natural value and social value. A distinction may be vital given the updated definition of social value that focuses on measuring changes in aspects of wellbeing, but it doesn’t ignore the interdependence between environmental and social outcomes. It was emphasised that decision-making must acknowledge this interdependence and respond appropriately. Yulia also unveiled ongoing efforts within SVI to create more guidance on how to address environmental outcomes in social accounts, including the establishment of a working group later in the year, which insights from this TLG can inform.

    Led by Sarah at Suez Recycling and Recovery UK and Cara at Ridge & Partners, the discussion delved into three proposed questions for this TLG to address. Breakout sessions enriched the discourse, with participants grappling with the challenges of translating environmental data into actionable insights and fostering behavioral change.

    Following an agreement on the TLG’s objectives and outputs, the group began planning for their next meeting, which will focus on task allocation and survey refinement. This collaborative spirit underscores a collective commitment to understanding environmental considerations in social value frameworks.

    If you are a Social Value UK member and an expert in environmental and social value interested in participating in this TLG, it’s not too late to get involved. Simply sign up for the next meeting on May 15th at 15:00.

  • Activity spotlight – The Credera Academy

    Activity spotlight – The Credera Academy

    This blog is the first in a series which showcases some of the fantastic activities which members of Social Value UK are conducting to generate a positive social impact.

    In this blog, we’ll be shining a spotlight on the work of one of our organisational members, Credera, and their flagship social value initiative the Credera Academy. Credera are a global consultancy with expertise in data, ecommerce, artificial intelligence, experience design, and management consulting.

    The Credera Academy is a skills-based initiative aimed at 16-18 year olds, delivered in a school setting. Guided by Credera’s staff, students experience a series of interactive workshops crafted to equip them with the tools and knowledge to thrive in the workplace.

    The workshops are provided to schools entirely free of cost, providing students with a window into the world of consultancy – a career path they may not have previously considered or even knew existed.

    Credera Academy workshops cover a broad range of topics, from crafting a great CV from scratch, to understanding how to confidently navigate a job interview. Students are provided with insights and practical activities every step of the way. There’s an emphasis on “soft skills”, too, such as communication skills, collaboration, and critical thinking – skills applicable to any industry the student may choose to start a career in.

    Through interactive activities and case study scenarios based on real-world consultancy projects, students have the opportunity to use and improve their problem-solving and decision-making skills – essential competencies for any aspiring professional.

    The impact of Credera Academy workshops extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. As a member of Social Value UK’s movement, Credera are deeply committed to driving positive social change through their activities. By providing students from all backgrounds access to these workshops and experiences, Credera are helping to unlock the potential of young people as they move from education and into the world of work.

    Case study questions

    Could you tell us briefly about your organisation?

    Credera, a global consulting firm, combines transformational consulting capabilities, deep industry knowledge, and AI and technology expertise to deliver valuable customer experiences and accelerated growth across a broad range of industries worldwide. 

Our one-of-a-kind, global boutique approach means we provide our clients with tailored solutions unique to their organisation that can scale due to our extensive footprint.

    As a values-led organisation, our mission is to make an extraordinary impact on our clients, our people, and our community.

    We believe this approach allows us to work with and transform the most influential brands and organisations in the world, from strategy through to execution. Visit us at www.credera.com

    What social needs/problems is the Credera Academy aimed at solving?

    The Consulting Academy is a skills-based initiative founded on the principles of social mobility. The Academy seeks to bridge the gap between people from disadvantaged backgrounds and secure, prosperous employment with the added benefit of contributing to workplace inclusivity.

    How has it been developed?

    Credera have worked closely with an Education Consultant, and taken onboard feedback from staff and students at their partnership schools, to create a structured curriculum and set of learning objectives based around a series of workshops, helping students to develop relevant business skills that are core to a consultant but are also transferrable across many different work settings.

    What outputs have been achieved?

    30+ Crederians have been trained as facilitators and the Credera Consulting Academy has reached over 500 students in Leeds, Newcastle, London, Jersey and Monmouthshire; with further sessions planned throughout 2024.

    How does this benefit your organisation in the short term?

    Running this initiative enables our people to be a force for good in the communities within which we work.

    How does this benefit your organisation in the long term?

    Running this initiative will allow us to evidence meaningful positive social impact in underprivileged areas and contribute to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their background.

    Do you have any stories from individual young people who you’ve helped that you could share?

    • “They have made me feel better prepared and less anxious about the working world.”
    • “It has shown me how to be more confident and how to structure my interview.”
    • “I’m now aware of the importance of soft skills, transferable skills and how to take initiative during an interview.”
    • “It has inspired me to look at more career paths.”

    Is your organisation also working to generate positive social impact? If so, learn more about Social Value UK’s mission here, and consider joining our movement.