Social value in public sector tenders: how to score well
5 min read · last reviewed 29 Sept 2026
Social value is now a scored part of most public tenders — in central government it's typically worth at least 10% of the total. It's also where small, local firms can outscore much bigger competitors, because it rewards specific, local, measurable commitments rather than size.
What buyers mean by social value
The wider benefit a contract delivers beyond the service itself: jobs and training for local people, opportunities for SMEs and social enterprises in the supply chain, environmental improvements, wellbeing, community support. Buyers usually tell you which themes and outcomes they care about in the tender documents — answer those, not a generic list.
Make commitments specific and measurable
Tie each commitment to this contract, give a number and a date, say how you'll measure it and how you'll report it. Buyers will hold you to it in contract management.
- Weak: 'We are committed to supporting the local community.'
- Strong: 'We will recruit two apprentices from the borough in year one, deliver 40 hours a year of volunteering with the named community partner, and report quarterly against both.'
Don't overpromise
Social value commitments usually become contract obligations. A small promise you keep beats a large one you can't evidence — and a poor record will follow you into the next bid.
Frequently asked questions
- How much is social value worth in a tender?
- It varies by buyer. Central government guidance sets a minimum 10% weighting; many councils and NHS bodies use similar or higher weightings.