Tuesday 5 February 2013

Social Value Act comes into Force


The Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012 requires commissioners to consider the economic, environmental and social benefits of their approaches to procurement before the process starts. Commissioners will also have to consider whether they should consult on these issues. The Act applies to the pre-procurement stage of contracts for services as the Government believes that is where social value can be considered to greatest effect to inform the whole shape of the procurement approach and the design of the services required.
The Government also contends that wider consultation will:
  • develop stronger relationships between service providers and authorities; and
  • enable people to say what they want from a particular public service, resulting in the best possible service for local communities.
The Government argues that as the demand for core public services increases significantly due to reduced central government funding, commissioners will be required to identify better targeted more innovative and radical service delivery solutions to meet this demand.
Minister for Civil Society, Nick Hurd, said:
"As taxpayers, we should all want those buying services on our behalf to get as much value as possible. This Act is an important step in encouraging public sector commissioners to think harder about maximising value to communities. It also supports our commitment to make it easier for charities and Social Enterprises to help deliver better public services."


(Source: Grant finder)

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