Procurement in Action: New Rules, New Tools, Real Impact

February has been a big month for procurement—new policies, major milestones, and even an upgraded Social Value measurement tool!

The Procurement Act is officially live, bringing new rules that will reshape how organisations buy and deliver Social Value. Meanwhile, the National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) lays out what’s expected from buyers moving forward. Not to be outdone, the Social Value TOM System? also got a refresh this month, offering a smarter way to measure Social Value.

Plus, we’ve got insights from Lorraine Cox, a standout leader in procurement, and a brilliant NHS success story showing how the third sector can help drive community impact. And if you’re wondering how to make your procurement process work harder for Social Value, we’ve got just the guide for you.

Settle in, and let’s talk about the future of procurement—with a little bit of heart. ??

Transforming Public Procurement: What You Need to Know

Big changes are here for public procurement! The UK government’s Transforming Public Procurement Knowledge Drops break down the latest reforms, helping organisations understand what’s new and how to adapt. These bite-sized insights cover everything from boosting transparency to embedding Social Value, making procurement more efficient and impactful.

With the Procurement Act now in force, staying informed is key. These Knowledge Drops offer a practical way to get up to speed and ensure you're making the most of the new framework. Ready to navigate the future of procurement with confidence?

Explore the Knowledge Drops here

The New National Procurement Policy Statement: What It Means for Social Value

The latest National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) sets clear expectations for how public sector contracts should prioritise Social Value. But it’s not just about compliance—it’s about making procurement a force for good. Guy Battle breaks down the key takeaways, what’s new, and how organisations can align their strategies to maximise impact.

Find out more

TOM System?: The Upgraded Tool That’s Taking Social Value Measurement to the Next Level

This Valentine’s Day, the TOM System made its grand return—bigger, better, and ready to revolutionise Social Value measurement! Whether you're new to the model or a long-time fan, this update ensures even greater accuracy, flexibility, and alignment with government policy. Why does this matter? Because measuring impact should be as rewarding as creating it! If you're looking for a long-term relationship with meaningful results, the TOM System is the perfect match. ??

Explore now

Social Value People: An Interview with Procurement Powerhouse Lorraine Cox

Meet Lorraine Cox FIoL , a procurement leader with a wealth of experience in embedding Social Value into contracts. In this candid interview, Lorraine shares insights on how procurement teams can drive real impact, the biggest challenges in the sector, and why collaboration is key. If you want to learn from one of the best in the business, this is a must-read.

Check it out here

NHS Cheshire & Merseyside: Harnessing the Power of the Third Sector

NHS Cheshire and Merseyside is proving that partnerships with third-sector organisations can drive real community impact. By working closely with charities and social enterprises, they’re tackling health inequalities, employment challenges, and sustainability goals—all while embedding Social Value into their core operations. This success story showcases how procurement and social partnerships can transform communities.

Read their story

The Social Value Buyer’s Toolkit: Are You Making the Most of Your Spending Power?

Procurement professionals, this one's for you! Maximising Social Value isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about making every pound work harder for positive change. This toolkit walks you through best practices, key considerations, and the tools to ensure that every contract delivers meaningful impact. Whether you're new to Social Value or looking to refine your approach, this is your go-to resource.

Access the toolkit now

• Exploring Professional Roles in Social Value: Wrexham University sheds light on the key roles that shape Social Value-driven careers and you can register for their upcoming workshop happening in April. Check it out
• Inside the Mind of a Social Value Apprentice: Ever wondered what it’s like to work as a Social Value Coordinator? Lucy Youlton from Esh Group shares her experience, insights, and the impact she’s making at County Durham Pound. Read more
• Serco’s Commitment to a Better Future: Social Value isn’t just a buzzword for Serco —it’s an active mission. Discover how they are supporting and empowering communities through meaningful initiatives. Learn more
• A Career in Procurement with Social Impact: Looking for a role where procurement meets purpose? We are hiring a Procurement Executive to drive social impact through smarter purchasing. See the job listing