Businesses working in the construction supply chain are being invited to a free event designed to help them understand how social value can strengthen bids, win work and support local communities.
Hosted by Chesterfield Borough Council, the ‘Unlocking Social Value in Chesterfield’ event will take place at the Winding Wheel Theatre on Thursday 1 October, from 2.30pm to 4.30pm.
The event will provide practical advice and guidance for businesses looking to improve their competitiveness when bidding for contracts, while demonstrating the positive impact they have on local people and places.
Social value is increasingly becoming an important part of procurement processes, with organisations expected to show how they will create wider benefits for communities alongside delivering services or projects. The session will take account of new Government guidance (PPN 026: The Social Value Model) which provides greater emphasis on leveraging local jobs and skills in the procurement process.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and cabinet member for economic growth, said: "There are many significant investment projects taking place across Chesterfield and social value is playing an increasingly important role in procurement and contract delivery.
"This event is an opportunity for businesses to better understand what buyers are looking for, learn how to demonstrate the wider benefits they bring to local communities, and increase their confidence when bidding for work.
"Whether you're a small local supplier or a larger organisation working across the region, we'd encourage businesses to come along and find out more."
Many businesses are already delivering social value through activities such as employing local people, offering apprenticeships and training opportunities, supporting community initiatives, volunteering, or working with local suppliers.
The event will help businesses understand how to recognise and evidence this work effectively, enabling them to showcase the value they bring when competing for future opportunities.
Attendees will hear practical procurement guidance and gain insights from a business keynote speaker who will share examples of best practice. The session will also explore how tools such as Compliance Chain can help businesses capture and report their social value impact.
Businesses attending the event will leave with a clearer understanding of social value requirements, practical steps to strengthen future bids, and information about social value opportunities arising in Chesterfield.
Find out more information and book your place.
