Social value is no longer a nice-to-have in UK public sector bids, it carries real marks, and weak answers cost contracts. Under PPN 06/20, central government must explicitly evaluate social value, commonly with a weighting of around 10%. Here's how to turn that requirement into a competitive advantage.
Why social value carries marks
Public spending is meant to deliver more than the goods or service being bought. PPN 06/20 formalised this by requiring social value to be evaluated, not just considered, in relevant central government procurements, and much of the wider public sector follows suit. That means a strong social value answer can be the difference between winning and placing second.
What evaluators are looking for
Evaluators reward commitments that are relevant to the contract, proportionate to its value, and specific enough to be measured. Generic pledges to 'support the community' score poorly; a named, quantified commitment with a delivery mechanism scores well.
- Relevance, the commitment connects to the actual contract and locality
- Specificity, numbers, timescales and named activities, not aspirations
- Measurability, clear metrics the buyer can track through delivery
- Credibility, evidence you've delivered similar outcomes before
Writing commitments you can keep
Remember that social value commitments become contractual deliverables you'll be measured against. Promise what you can evidence and deliver: local apprenticeships, spend with SMEs in your supply chain, carbon reduction measures, or volunteering hours, each with a target and a method. Credible, deliverable commitments score better and protect your reputation for the next bid.
Frequently asked questions
What is PPN 06/20?+
It's the Procurement Policy Note that requires central government to explicitly evaluate social value in relevant procurements, typically with a minimum weighting of around 10%.
Does social value apply to small contracts?+
Weighting and emphasis vary, but social value features across much of the public sector; commitments should always be proportionate to the contract's size and scope.
What counts as social value?+
Outcomes such as local employment and skills, supporting SMEs in the supply chain, reducing environmental impact, and improving community wellbeing, relevant to the specific contract.