Using Governance and Assurance to Strengthen Social Value Credibility
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Social value commitments are only as credible as the governance that underpins them. Commissioners and regulators increasingly expect providers to demonstrate not just what social value they aim to deliver, but how delivery is governed, assured and improved over time.
This article connects with wider Knowledge Hub guidance, including quality and governance and CQC governance and leadership. It focuses on the role governance plays in strengthening social value credibility.
Why Governance Matters for Social Value
Without governance, social value risks being seen as aspirational rather than operational. Commissioners want confidence that commitments are embedded within existing management and oversight structures.
Governance ensures accountability, consistency and transparency.
Embedding Social Value into Governance Structures
Effective providers integrate social value into established governance arrangements rather than creating parallel systems.
This may include:
- Board-level oversight of social value performance
- Regular management review of social value data
- Clear ownership of delivery and reporting
Operational Examples of Governance in Practice
Example one: A provider includes social value metrics in quarterly quality and performance reports reviewed by senior leadership.
Example two: A learning disability service assigns social value responsibility to a named operational lead, with progress reviewed through supervision and team meetings.
Example three: A provider uses internal audits to test the accuracy of reported social value data, identifying gaps and improvement actions.
Commissioner and Regulator Expectations
Commissioners expect providers to demonstrate how social value performance is challenged and improved. This includes evidence of corrective action when commitments are not met.
Regulators also consider how governance supports ethical practice, workforce stability and community impact.
Assurance Mechanisms That Build Confidence
Assurance mechanisms such as audits, peer reviews and independent validation help build confidence in reported outcomes.
These mechanisms demonstrate that social value reporting is robust and not reliant on untested self-assessment.
Using Governance to Drive Continuous Improvement
Strong governance enables providers to move beyond compliance toward continuous improvement. Social value data becomes a tool for learning rather than a reporting burden.
This strengthens credibility with commissioners and supports long-term sustainability.
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