Social Value
Councils are embedding social value into procurement and commissioning, while also focusing on maximising community benefits from assets and services.
Islington Council formally approved its first Social Value Statement in September 2026, aiming to embed social value into all commissioning and procurement activities. This statement outlines five key themes including Communities, Economy, and Environment. In Hackney, social value commitments were included in a £2.2 million electrical testing contract awarded in May 2026, and a new tennis contract was awarded to a charitable organisation in September 2026 to boost community participation.
Harrow Council's Cabinet is reviewing a motion concerning the future community benefit of the Wealdstone Centre, considering operations by community organisations. Kensington and Chelsea Council adopted a new Culture Plan in July 2026, aiming to unlock developer funding for cultural initiatives, and its Asset Strategy designated a hub for the Voluntary and Community Sector. Redbridge Council is also exploring community wealth building and strategies to boost local businesses.
The Policy and Oversight Board in Hammersmith and Fulham discussed the council's work to support inclusive growth in October 2026, hearing from local businesses and officers. Councils define social value as the broader benefits to the community and society that arise from their activities, particularly in commissioning and procurement, extending beyond direct economic or service delivery impacts.
Key facts
- Islington Council formally approved its first Social Value Statement in September 2026. Source
- Hackney Council awarded a tennis facilities contract to a charitable organisation in September 2026 to boost community participation. Source
- Hackney Council included social value commitments in a £2.2 million electrical testing contract awarded in May 2026. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea Council adopted its new Culture Plan for 2026-2030 in July 2026. Source
- Harrow Council's Cabinet is reviewing a motion on the future community benefit of the Wealdstone Centre. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 23 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.