The Council and democracy Social value

What are we doing?

Manchester is recognised as a national leader in progressive procurement. Everything we do is focused on improving outcomes for Manchester residents. 

We work closely with suppliers who deliver social and environmental benefits. Their work has: 

  • created jobs for people facing barriers 
  • increased local spending 
  • supported community organisations 
  • improved sustainability and reduced waste 

We monitor progress through our Social Value Governance Board. We also run working groups and work with the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) to explore new ideas for improving the way we work. 

We make sure social value is embedded across the Council by: 

  • linking it to our strategic aims 
  • building it into every stage of procurement 
  • creating tailored approaches for large contracts 
  • supporting Council staff to deliver social value 
  • connecting organisationsand sharing achievements to inspire further action 

Our impact: 

  • We aim to have over 60% of our spending with Manchester‑based organisations 
  • We require 100% of our suppliers to pay at least the Real Living Wage 
  • This supports fair, secure employment and boosts the local economy 
  • We also set ambitious targets in our contracts for local employment and community support.  

Here are some recent examples: 

Victoria North Regeneration 

  • 5,087 sustained or new jobs created 
  • 35% of jobs taken by local residents 
  • 7,624 young people involved in career development 
  • Over 5,000 volunteer hours donated to local charities 

Highways Suppliers 

  • £53,382 donated to community groups 
  • 4,267 tonnes of waste diverted from landfill 
  • 94 weeks of apprenticeships delivered 
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