Ethical Sourcing and Social Value
NHS Supply Chain’s impact is global in terms of both carbon and social value. Recognising the huge impact suppliers have whether they are UK-based or abroad is an important part of the organisation’s modern slavery and labour standards approach.
NHS Supply Chain is committed to tackling modern slavery and upholding labour standards. As part of our broader social value and in recognition of the important role small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have in local communities, NHS Supply Chain will continue to ensure that 33% of spend remains with SMEs.
The Social Value Model
A minimum weighting of 10% of the total score for the tender evaluation should apply to social value across five themes. A question on net zero is required in all procurements.
The five themes that we expect to see all of our suppliers cover in the tender process are:
- Fighting climate change
- Tackling economic inequality
- COVID-19 recovery
- Wellbeing
- Equal opportunity.
Customers can see what themes a framework has embedded into them on our contract information pages as this information becomes available.
Supply Chain Mapping
To deliver social value NHS Supply Chain remains committed to operating responsibly to deliversocial value in the communities we touch.
In response to the Health and Care Act (2022), in 2023/2024 we will continue to develop and evolve our approach to tackling modern slavery and human trafficking. This will include:
- Prioritisation: A methodology for prioritisation and risk assessment.
- Supplier grouping: Grouping suppliers into high, medium, and low priority.
- Implementation: Development and implementation of actions for each level of supplier groupings.
- Volunteering: We will also provide all colleagues with the option to undertake two days of volunteering in their communities each year.
