Introduction to Social Value

Social value is defined through the Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012 which came into force in January 2013 and requires all public sector organisations (and their suppliers) to look beyond the financial cost of a contract and consider how the services they commission and procure might improve the economic, social and environmental well-being of an area. (Local Government Association) 

Public authorities consider the wider financial and nonfinancial value created by an organisation through its day-to-day activities in the delivery of their contracts and express it in terms of the wellbeing generated for individuals, communities, the economy and the environment.

Essex County Council (ECC) wishes to collaboratively work on social value with our suppliers, partners, and the community to benefit Essex. 

We are providing links to external resources to aid general knowledge development only; these links do not imply endorsement of particular products, services or organisations. When bidding for ECC contracts always read the tender documents provided and follow the instructions carefully. Our aim is to promote understanding of social value.

If you have any questions about ECC social value approach or if you need information on this website in a different format, please email social.value@essex.gov.uk . We’d appreciate your feedback too, let us know how we can make this web page better.