Redbridge Council has successfully generated over £5.5 million in social value pledges through its contracts since September 2023, demonstrating a strong commitment to integrating social, economic, and environmental benefits into its procurement processes. This update was presented to the Strategy and Resources Policy Development Committee.
A cornerstone of this strategy is the mandatory 10% weighting for social value in relevant tenders. This policy applies to all council contracts exceeding UK thresholds, which are £177,000 for goods and services and £4.2 million for works such as capital projects. A new corporate framework, introduced in September 2023, leverages the Social Value Portal to assess and monitor these commitments. The Redbridge Themes and Output Measures (TOMs) framework, comprising 16 agreed measures, guides suppliers to commit to activities within the borough. These measures encompass crucial areas like local labour, apprenticeships, training, environmental improvements, contributions to net zero, and social contributions such as volunteering hours and donations to charities or council priority areas.
Of the over £5.5 million committed, more than £360,000 has already been delivered. The council is actively championing social value through a robust policy and plans to publish an annual impact report to showcase tangible benefits. The Social Value Portal plays a critical role in ensuring these commitments are met, with its ability to evaluate, monitor, and validate supplier claims. Contract managers are tasked with overseeing delivery, ensuring that what suppliers pledge aligns with the council's objectives.
Contractors have engaged in various initiatives, including donations to the Mayor's Charity Appeal, participation in Green Skills Career Days, SME Pitch to Win It events, and support for domestic abuse victims through the Safe At Home programme.
Elizabeth Hannam, Economic Development Manager, highlighted the progress, including the development of the 'It's Local Redbridge' business directory. This directory currently lists approximately 2,500 businesses that are actively seeking council contracts, out of an estimated 14,000 businesses operating within the borough. Furthermore, a 'ready-to-supply' programme, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is assisting local SMEs in the construction and facilities management sectors to engage with council contracts. These comprehensive efforts aim to ensure that social value commitments translate into tangible benefits for Redbridge residents.
