Social Value Policy

3.1 The Act states: "If the relevant authority proposes to procure or make arrangements for procuring the provision of services, or the provision of services together with the purchase or hire of goods or the carrying out of works. The authority must consider how what is proposed to be procured might improve the economic, social and environmental well-being of the relevant area and, in conducting the process of procurement how it might act with a view to securing that improvement". It must also "consider whether to undertake any consultations as to matters to be considered" under that process.

3.2 For the purposes of this policy we refer to this improvement of wellbeing as social value. In order to implement this, we seek measurable, verifiable social value outcomes that:

a) are achievable and proportionate to the size, value and scope of the contract

b) are secured as a result of the supplier, provider and contractor being awarded the contract with the Council

c) contribute to achieving the Council's Key Strategic Priorities (as described in the Council Plan and other strategic plans)

3.3 Key Themes of social value as identified in the Social Value Themes, Outcomes and Measures (TOMs) Framework include:

i) Work

Creating local employment opportunities, creating equal employment opportunities, providing skills and experience for good work, providing good work opportunities, developing skills and experience for future work.

We will support our residents to access secure and sustainable employment, by helping them to develop and make the most of their skills. We will focus efforts on communities that have more prevalent issues with lower skills and lower wages, as well as people facing barriers to employment, such as those.

ii) Economy

Building diverse and sustainable supply chains, promoting a diverse and resilient business community.

We will work with our local companies to increase their positive impact on local communities, the local environment and supply chains, ensuring that more wealth is retained here and circulates locally. Stockton-on-Tees will be recognised place of responsible business and local ownership.

iii) Community

Building resilient communities, building community wellbeing.

We will work with our local companies to increase their positive impact on local communities, the local environment and supply chains, ensuring that more wealth is retained here and circulates locally.

Stockton-on-Tees will be recognised place of responsible business and local ownership. We will also build on community strengths and grow resilience, by helping to put more economic assets in the hands of our local communities and by encouraging communities to invest and spend with local companies to promote growth.

iv) Planet

Restoring our climate and improving air quality through decarbonisation, restoring our climate and improving air quality through transport, promoting environmentally sustainable procurement, protecting and restoring biodiversity and ecosystems, transitioning to a regenerative economy.

As part of our approach to support vibrant and healthy communities, we will take advantage of opportunities to make best use of green space, improve energy efficiency and air quality. This will include working with developers and other partners to influence design and delivery, as well as raising awareness about the health impacts of poor air quality and promoting behaviours that can have a positive impact.

3.4 This list is not exhaustive and additional or innovative means of achieving social value can be suggested by either the Council or its suppliers, providers or contractors delivering goods, services or works where appropriate.