Navigating Social Value Requirements for Public Sector Tendering: A Guide for SMEs

Winning public sector contracts can open new doors for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Yet, one of the biggest challenges many face is meeting the Social Value requirements embedded in public sector tendering. These requirements are not just a box to tick; they reflect a growing demand for businesses to contribute positively to society beyond delivering goods or services. If you’re unsure whether your SME meets these expectations, I’m here to help you understand what Social Value means and how to align your business with these criteria.

Volunteering to contribute to social value in public sector contracts

What Social Value Means in Public Sector Tendering

Social Value refers to the additional benefits a business brings to the community, environment, and economy through its operations. Public sector bodies increasingly require suppliers to demonstrate how their work will create positive social, economic, or environmental impacts. This can include:

• Creating local jobs or apprenticeships

• Supporting disadvantaged groups

• Reducing environmental impact

• Promoting health and wellbeing

• Encouraging community engagement

  
  

Understanding these expectations helps you prepare bids that show your SME’s commitment to more than just profit.

How to Assess Your SME’s Current Social Value Contribution

Before you can meet Social Value requirements, you need to know where your business stands. Here’s how to start:

• Review your current activities: Look at your hiring practices, community involvement, environmental policies, and supplier choices.

• Gather evidence: Collect data on local employment, training programs, charitable work, or sustainability efforts.

• Identify gaps: Compare your current contributions with the Social Value criteria in typical public sector tenders relevant to your industry.

  
  

For example, if a tender asks for environmental sustainability, but your business has no green policies, that’s a clear gap to address.

How to Build Social Value into Your Business Strategy

Meeting Social Value requirements means embedding these principles into your everyday operations. Here are practical steps:

• Create local employment opportunities: Hire locally or offer apprenticeships or internships to support community development.

• Engage with community projects: Partner with local charities or initiatives that align with your business values.

• Adopt sustainable practices: Adopt a clear policy to reduce waste, use eco-friendly materials, or improve energy efficiency.

• Support diversity and inclusion: Ensure your workplace is welcoming and accessible to all groups.

• Measure and report impact: Track your Social Value activities and outcomes to demonstrate real benefits.

  
  

For instance, a local catering SME might source ingredients from nearby farms, reducing carbon footprint and supporting local businesses.

How to Demonstrate Social Value in Your Tender Submission

Simply doing good is not enough; you must clearly communicate your Social Value in your tender documents. Use these tips:

• Be specific: Detail the actions you take and the expected outcomes. Avoid vague statements.

• Use data: Provide numbers where possible, such as jobs created or percentage reduction in waste.

• Align with the buyer’s priorities: Tailor your Social Value offer to the goals stated in the tender.

• Include case studies: Share examples of past projects where you delivered Social Value.

• Show continuous improvement: Explain how you plan to build on your Social Value efforts over time.

  
  

For example, if a council wants to improve youth employment, describe your apprenticeship program and how it has helped young people gain skills.

How I Can Help Your SME Meet Social Value Requirements

Navigating Social Value can feel complex, especially when balancing it with other tender demands. I offer guidance to help you:

• Understand specific Social Value criteria in your sector

• Identify opportunities to enhance your business impact

• Develop clear, compelling Social Value statements

• Create acceptable governance around identifying who and why you support the initiatives and causes you choose to support

• Track and report your Social Value outcomes effectively

  
  

Together, we can position your SME as a strong contender in public sector procurement by showcasing your genuine commitment to creating positive change.