How to: Write a Social Value Policy
We know that the most resilient, successful, and desirable organisations are those that recognise the role they have to play in having a positive impact – and minimising their negative effects – on society and the environment. They have a culture which fosters sustainability, and have the policies and processes to back it up and ensure that all employees and suppliers are singing from the same songbook.
As social value is becoming increasingly significant in both the procurement of and delivery of public services, we are increasingly seeing the public sector ask their prospective suppliers to show evidence of their Social Value Policy.
What is a social value policy, and why do organisations need one?
A Social Value Policy is a statement outlining your organisation’s commitment to social value obligations made. It outlines how your organisation intends to promote and ensure that social value is delivered through its operational activities.
It is more than just a document; it is a demonstration of your organisation’s commitment to ethical, sustainable, and purpose-driven practice.
Having a robust Social Value Policy in place can improve cohesion and communication across different functions of the business, reassure public sector customers of your ability to deliver on your social value commitments, and support the success of your overarching social value strategy, particularly during periods of change within your organisation, to help ensure a continued positive impact.
Businesses play a pivotal role in shaping society, and as well as the benefits stated above, a well-crafted policy can help to enhance reputation, and help your organisation to work towards other long-term sustainability goals.
What to include in your Social Value Policy
1. Introduction
Briefly define what social value is, referencing guiding principles, legislation, and the frameworks relevant to your organisation, and your customers. Make reference to the Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012, and depending on what your customers predominantly use, think about alignment to the UK Social Value Model, or the National TOMs.
Share a social value statement, explaining what social value means to your organisation and how it links to your organisational values and mission.
2. Policy Scope
Explain what the purpose of the policy is, who the policy is for and who the policy applies to. Is it a corporate policy? Does it apply to your suppliers?
3. Social Value in Practice
How do you apply principles of social value to your daily business operations? What are you committed to?
Why does your organisation do it, and why is it important to your business?
This might be an opportunity for your organisation to hold social value workshops, to find out from your employees/teams what you do, what or who you support, and where your skills and resources can be best aligned.
Apply these questions when thinking about all aspects of social value activity – environmental, economic, social, and your supply chain.
4. Governance and Communication
How does your organisation monitor and measure social value activity? How do you report on social value activity, and how often? Who is responsible for communicating information relating to social value activity? How and where is that information shared, and with whom?
5. Stakeholder Engagement
Describe how your organisation will engage with stakeholders including employees, local communities, customers, suppliers, and delivery partners, to ensure that their needs are met, and perspectives are considered.
6. Supporting Policies and Statements
Include reference to any relevant corporate policies or statements, e.g., Human Rights Policy, Supplier Charters, Modern Slavery Policy, Carbon Reduction Plan.
7. Key Personnel
Include the name(s) of any person(s) responsible for delivery of the policy, along with their job title and signature.
8. Policy Review Schedule and Record
When/how will the policy be reviewed? Who is responsible for reviewing the policy?
9. Glossary of Terms
Social value may be a new concept to many readers of the policy. It may be useful to include a glossary of terms to ensure that readers fully understand the requirements and conditions of the policy.
Tips for Implementing your Social Value Policy
Involve employees in shaping and championing social value activities to build a sense of ownership and purpose.
Embed social value considerations into your daily operations and decision-making processes.
Ensure senior-level buy-in and support to drive successful integration.
Continuously assess the effectiveness of the policy, gather feedback and adapt strategies and needs and challenges evolve.
Collaborate with other organisations to share best practice.
Ensure that your policy aligns with your core values and objectives.
Clearly communicate your commitments to all stakeholders and provide regular updates on progress.
Social Value Policies provide a structured way for businesses to define their roles in society as positive. By developing and implementing a strong policy, organisations can secure their own long-term success while having a meaningful impact through operations.
If you’d like some support in writing or reviewing your social value policy, Samtaler’s Subject Matter Experts can help. Reach out today via hello@samtaler.co.uk or book a Discovery Call if you’d like to find out more about social value policies or how else we can support your organisation on its social value journey.
How can we help?
At Samtaler, we understand the importance of your social value commitment. You’re here because you care about your business's impact on society and want to be better. We want you to succeed, and we know from experience that achieving social value requires skill, strategy, and support.
To find out how we can help, send an email to hello@samtaler.co.uk
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