For the last few weeks, we’ve been exploring the upcoming changes to NHS procurement. Namely, the April introduction of the government’s new Social Value Model.
First, we outlined all the changes that will be taking place across NHS procurement, including the minimum 10% social value weighting and the Annex A framework for social value outcomes. Next, we tackled some frequently asked questions that professionals and teams might have about the changing guidance.
To close off this month, we’re going to pivot slightly, turning our attention to NHS suppliers specifically. Unlike NHS procurement teams, suppliers may be at a vastly different level of understanding and experience with social value. So we’ve put together our top tips for any NHS suppliers who are unsure of the next best steps.
#1 – Consider what you are already doing
It’s easy to read all the new changes and panic about the extra time and resources they’ll demand from you. But this misses the fact that you’ll already be doing lots of great work in terms of social value.
Chances are that many of your existing projects and actions are having a positive social impact in some way. Your existing CSR commitments and general ethics as a business may already be achieving great social value – all of which can be carried forward into the new model.
Consider all your existing contracts and identify areas where you’re achieving significant social change. As well as areas where your impact could be improved even further. The transition to the new model becomes far simpler when you recognise and acknowledge all the great work you’re already doing. Then it’s just about uncovering opportunities to do even more of it.
#2 – Start conversations with procurement teams early
Perhaps the greatest piece of advice we can give about crafting bids that maximise social value is to liaise with the contracting authority directly. And to do this as soon as possible.
Rather than going around in circles guessing what they might want, just try asking them. Before April’s changes go live, NHS procurement teams will spend a lot of time narrowing down the government’s themes and outcomes into what’s most relevant and important for their organisation. They’ll also decide exactly what award criteria they’ll be analysing prospective bids against.
So, if they’re not already reaching out to you to explain what they want moving forward, initiate those conversations yourself. The sooner you understand their expectations and priorities, the sooner you can shift your approach.
💡 Top tip: Adopting the new model doesn’t have to be a challenge your organisation faces alone. Starting conversations with other NHS suppliers will also prove invaluable when finding your feet with the new guidance. The more we encourage cross-industry discussion and collaboration, the easier it will be for everyone to hit the ground running come April.
#3 – Get reading
There is already so much guidance out there to help you over the coming months. Back when these changes came into effect for all government procurement, they released lengthy documents to help procurement teams and suppliers make sense of it all. So if you haven’t already read their introduction to the Social Value Model and their guide on how to use it, we recommend you set some time aside to do so.
From clearly articulating what each theme represents, to giving tangible examples of what actions you might take to achieve each outcome, these will help enhance your understanding and paint a wider picture of what April should look like.
Similarly, taking the time to research current and future environmental and social targets, laws, and regulations will be valuable. Government guidance is often influenced by wider laws and targets, so familiarising yourself with any new changes will allow you to better anticipate how your own procurement process might have to adapt.
#4 – Make carbon emissions a top priority
Over 60% of the NHS’ carbon footprint is based in their supply chain. This makes carbon emissions a key focus for social value over the coming years.
Anything you can include in tenders that will help contracting authorities edge closer to their net-zero targets will be welcomed. While this isn’t the be all and end all of social value, it’s an area we believe will see a lot of attention once April rolls around. It’s a short point, but one worth making. If you’re looking for somewhere to start, this could be it.
That brings us to the end of our month-long foray into the NHS’ new Social Value Model. Whether you’re a procurement professional or supplier, we understand that there’s a lot to think about right now. If there’s any way the Impact team can help you and your team further, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
Embed social value into the procurement process with ease thanks to Impact. With bids automatically converted and ranked using your chosen metrics, we simplify all aspects of social value. To find out more, schedule a demo or get in touch with the team on 0161 532 4752.