We supported our client in a bid to become a supplier of a local prime contractor whose commitment was well defined in support of addressing local inequalities by increasing the scale, diversity and development of existing sectors and new opportunities. The contractor expected delivery of positive social impact from its supply chain in line with its commitment.

The aim was to attract and create new investment, knowledge, ideas, innovation, capability, and resources that contributed to more inclusive and distributed local economies and focussed social impact resources into activities with organisations, partners and community assets that addressed critical social and environmental issues in communities.

Commissioning suppliers who shared the desire for a positive step-change in the social, economic, and environmental profile of communities was a priority. Two key focus areas were identified: to improve access to sustainable incomes beyond the locality – by increasing skills, knowledge, aspirations, and access to opportunities – and to assist local communities thrive – by supporting sustainable activities that create self-reliance and independence.

Measuring and evaluating the social impact using appropriate tools and processes was also required to support continuous improvement.

In anticipation of this opportunity going to tender, but prior to its release, we facilitated engagement between the prime contractor and our client. We consequently reviewed the client’s social impact policy, produced a strategy, and a tactical plan as the basis for a SMART matrix to address the contractor’s social impact priorities.

We clearly stated firm commitments for the social and economic value offer to be provided during the life of the contract (including timescales and point(s) of contact for delivery). Outcomes were noted from the proposals, detailing specific key interventions during delivery to achieve the outcomes. We demonstrated the beneficiaries of these outcomes with quantitative information appropriate to the scale and duration of the contract.

To measure success, we detailed how progress and performance would be evaluated and monitored against the objectives throughout the contract period, including continuous improvement. We also detailed how the proposals would impact collectively through a collaborative and co-ordinated approach to co-designing, engaging, and working with stakeholders, supply chain and communities to maximise social value.

Promoting sustainable incomes and thriving communities through social impact initiatives was the basis of our rationale to unlock significant benefit for the locality.

By creating job opportunities, supporting local businesses, and offering skills training, individuals and communities achieve greater financial stability and independence, breaking the cycle of poverty.

Thriving communities are more resilient in the face of challenges. Economic stability and diverse income sources help communities withstand economic downturns, and other crises, improving quality of life.

Economic opportunities strengthen social cohesion within a community. When people are economically empowered, they feel a greater sense of belonging and are more likely to engage positively with their neighbours and community.

Education and skills development not only enhances the employability of individuals but also contributes to the overall knowledge and capacity of the community, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to a wide range of individuals, including those from marginalised or underrepresented groups.

The impact of social initiatives providing sustainable incomes tends to be more enduring. As individuals and communities become self-sufficient, the positive effects are sustained over the long term, contributing to lasting change.