Page 95 - Procurement guidelines for smart sustainable cities - A U4SSC deliverable

The approach

Norfolk County Council has managed to find innovative ways of maximising the social value of its
contracts through its approach to pre-market engagement.

“Speak to suppliers early and ask them what they can offer, you may be surprised!”

Norfolk County council engaged early with suppliers on social value. Norfolk has a proactive and
open conversation with suppliers in an attempt to sound out as many opportunities as possible.
This approach keeps the conversation open, and leads ultimately to more creative ideas being
identified.

Being clear and realistic with the supplier is key, as is demonstrating your commitment to social
value. It is important to set goals tailored to be within the supplier's capabilities, as well as to engage
regularly with the supplier to ensure that the social value work is on track and still available. This is
crucial for ensuring the original social value element agreed does not get forgotten mid-project,
forcing you to change the scope of a contract part way through.

Norfolk County Council’s top tips on how to make “social value” work for ICT procurement in the
public sector:

• Engage early and agree what you could do together.

• Once you have agreed, write it down.
• Ensure you have come to an agreement that if there is equipment involved how it is purchased.

• Once you have engaged in the contract, remind suppliers of their commitment for social value.

• Manage it and have social value as a standing item in your commercial meetings.

The results

This approach has led to some big successes for Norfolk including:

• Contracts delivering up to GBP 160 000 of social value usually as an annual pot to be spent in
agreement with the supplier.

• Help for young people to access technology – this included special events to improve digital
skills, providing equipment and supplier professional staff support.
• Equipment/kits for schools to host and support events.

• Suppliers releasing their staff to provide staff hours to support special digital skills clubs.

• Positive staff engagement in the social value aspect of contracts, including awards ceremonies
for the biggest contributors. Providing funding to organize the event, prizes and presenters.

Procurement guidelines for smart sustainable cities | May 2023 81