What Commissioners Look for in Social Value Evidence
Most social care providers understand that “social value” is a mandatory part of modern tendering. But when it comes to evidencing impact, too many providers still submit vague, generic promises — and risk losing points as a result.
This article breaks down what local authority and NHS commissioners actually want to see in your social value method statements — and what’s likely to be overlooked.
✅ What Commissioners Want to See
- Specific Local Impact: Commissioners want to know how your service will directly benefit their community. Mention local employment, spend in the borough, links with schools or charities, and any community initiatives.
- Measurable Outcomes: Claims like “we reduce isolation” must be backed with metrics — e.g. number of befriending visits, digital access support, or carer training sessions delivered.
- Clear Alignment with Priorities: Refer to the council’s Social Value Policy, Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA), or local area plan. Show you’ve read and matched their aims.
- Inclusive Recruitment Practices: Detail how you recruit people with lived experience, disabilities, or barriers to work. Do you offer apprenticeships or peer support roles?
- Collaborations and Co-Production: Partnerships with VCSE organisations, Experts by Experience, and community stakeholders are often valued — especially when they go beyond tokenism.
🚫 What Tends to Get Ignored
- Generic Statements: Phrases like “we’re committed to the community” without examples don’t score. You must show how, where, and with whom.
- Uncosted Promises: Saying you’ll deliver extras “at no cost” without detailing how it’s resourced or embedded in your model looks superficial.
- Unrelated Charity Donations: A national donation programme or fundraising initiative may be admirable — but unless it benefits the commissioning area directly, it’s unlikely to score well.
- One-off Activities: Hosting a single tea party or event doesn’t count as sustainable social value unless it’s part of a broader ongoing offer.
📌 Final Tips for Writing Your Social Value Method Statement
- Use headings and structure (e.g. Economic, Social, Environmental)
- Include baseline and projected outcomes where possible
- Reference national frameworks like the Social Value Model (SVS) or TOMs — but localise your examples
- Use quotes or testimonials if available from past partnerships
If in doubt, ask: “Would this example convince a commissioner that I understand their area and priorities?” If not — refine or replace it.
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Updated for Procurement Act 2023 • CQC-aligned • BASE-aligned (where relevant)