UK Social Value in Tenders: Examples & How to Demonstrate It

Winning public sector construction contracts in 2025 requires more than just competitive pricing and quality work. Social value—a concept once considered an add-on—is now a key evaluation criterion in many tenders, especially following the introduction of PPN 06/20. If you’re a UK-based SME contractor new to tendering or looking to improve your bids, this guide will break down what social value really means, provide examples relevant to your business, and show you how to demonstrate it effectively.

This is your chance not only to win work but to stand out as a responsible and forward-thinking supplier in a competitive market.

What Is Social Value in Public Sector Tenders?

Social value refers to the wider positive benefits your construction business can deliver for the community, economy, and environment beyond the contract itself.

Since the implementation of PPN 06/20, all central government departments (and many local authorities) must allocate a minimum of 10% of the tender score to social value. For contractors, that means it can easily be the deciding factor—especially if you’re up against competitors with similar pricing or technical scores.

In construction tenders, social value commitments must be specific, measurable, and relevant to the local area or contract.

Common UK Social Value Themes in Construction Tenders

Public bodies often use the Social Value Model outlined in PPN 06/20 to shape their requirements. Here are some key themes relevant to the construction sector:

1. COVID-19 Recovery & Local Employment

Even in a post-COVID landscape, many tenders still ask how suppliers will support economic recovery—especially by hiring and upskilling local people.

Examples:

• Committing to hire apprentices or offer work placements from the local area.
• Partnering with local colleges or job centres to run construction training programmes.
• Providing interviews or job shadowing to unemployed residents.

2. Tackling Economic Inequality

This theme covers efforts to improve diversity, support SME or VCSE supply chains, and create opportunities for disadvantaged groups.

Examples:

• Awarding subcontract packages to local SMEs or social enterprises.
• Offering flexible working or fair pay initiatives on site.
• Mentoring or upskilling young people from underrepresented communities.

3. Fighting Climate Change

As the UK moves toward Net Zero by 2050, showing your environmental responsibility is more important than ever.

Examples:

• Using low-emission machinery or electric vehicles on-site.
• Minimising waste through reuse of materials or off-site construction.
• Having and following a Carbon Reduction Plan that aligns with government goals.

Tip: When using a UK social value tender example, tie it directly to the project’s location, client goals, and measurable outputs.

How to Demonstrate Social Value in Your Tender Response

Now that you understand what social value means, let’s look at how to structure a strong response in your bid:

1. Understand the Client’s Priorities

Every buyer is different. Some will focus on employment, others on sustainability or inclusion. Always read the Invitation to Tender (ITT) carefully and align your social value offer to what matters most to them.

Use any published social value policy or local economic strategy as your guide.

2. Be Specific and Measurable

Avoid vague promises like “we support local jobs.” Instead, give clear commitments, such as:

“We will hire two full-time apprentices from the borough of Walsall within 3 months of contract award.”

Then, show how you’ll monitor and report progress. This might include:

• Weekly progress reports
• A social value tracker
• Named social value lead on the team

3. Use the TOMs Framework (Optional but Recommended)

While not mandatory, many UK councils now refer to the National TOMs (Themes, Outcomes, Measures) framework when assessing bids.

Example TOMs-based commitment:

• Theme: Jobs
• Outcome: More local people employed
• Measure: Number of full-time equivalent (FTE) local employees hired

You can use this framework to build quantifiable and industry-accepted offers.

Real-World UK Social Value Tender Examples (Construction)

Here are a few realistic and achievable examples of social value in construction bids:

Example 1: Local Employment

“We will deliver two paid 12-week work placements for NEET (Not in Employment, Education, or Training) young people via a partnership with Leicester College.”

Example 2: Environmental Benefit

“By using recycled aggregates and off-site prefabrication, we will reduce construction waste by 40% compared to traditional methods.”

Example 3: Community Engagement

“Our project team will volunteer 40 hours at local schools to run construction career awareness workshops.”

These types of commitments are relatable, relevant, and show the evaluator that you understand both the technical delivery and social impact of your work.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Even experienced contractors fall into these traps when writing the social value section:

• Copy-pasting generic promises with no link to the contract
• Offering unrealistic or uncosted commitments
• Failing to explain how you’ll deliver and monitor social value
• Ignoring local needs or demographics

Remember: A winning social value section is tailored, practical, and demonstrably beneficial to the buyer and community.

Conclusion: Social Value Is an Opportunity, Not a Box-Tick

Public sector buyers are looking for partners who can build more than just structures—they want companies who build communities, skills, and a sustainable future. If you’re bidding in 2025, especially under the guidance of PPN 06/20, your ability to demonstrate social value will play a crucial role in whether you win or lose.

As a construction SME, you already create social value through your people, projects, and partnerships. The key is learning how to present that value clearly and persuasively in your bids.

Ready to Improve Your Bids?

Join our portal today to access live construction tenders, expert bid support, and practical templates that help you win public contracts.

Sign up now and start winning work that builds both business and community.