What this consultation is about
The Social Value Act 2012 came into force on 31 January 2013. The act places a requirement on commissioners (and procurement officers) to consider the economic, environmental and social benefits of their approaches to the procurement of public services. The act does not require social value to be considered in contracts for goods procured by us, however the Government promotes the inclusion of social value in all contracts as best practice.
A group comprising representatives from departments has been established to support the development of work across the council. The group has been working to produce a draft Social Value Strategy, which sets out the aims, priorities and key actions required to develop our approach. Having an agreed strategy and framework for maximising social value through the commissioning and procurement of services in Derbyshire will ensure that there is a consistent approach to this work moving forward.
Initial consultation has taken place within departments to ensure that proposals are fit for purpose. However, further consultation with the public and stakeholders will be required over forthcoming weeks.
The consultation process will be important in ensuring that the voluntary and community sector and, where appropriate, suppliers are able to input their views. During the period of consultation, work will take place to test the process on a range of forthcoming procurement exercises which are currently being identified by departments. In addition work will take place to develop a detailed action plan to support the strategy.
A report, seeking permission to consult was presented to Cabinet, 24 May 2016, agenda item 6. Following the consultation a report was presented the Cabinet, 31 January 2017, agenda item 8.