Issue - meetings

Report of the Leader of the Council

RESOLVED THAT:

1.    The social value policy attached as appendix 2 be agreed.

The Leader of the Council presented the report, noting that it was important to explain what exactly social value meant to the people of Cheltenham.

He emphasised that the council must seek to maximise the social value of legislation, and ensure it aligns with the council’s refreshed corporate plan. When it came to procurement, for example, it was not just about financial incentives but the wider social value too. The council’s aim must be to ensure that everyone thrives, but this report particularly targeted a number of key areas including children in poverty, adults with health and social care difficulties and other disadvantaged residents. He added that the council was responsible for approximately £23m in annual purchasing power and was in the process of rolling out a £100m housing program.

Its procurement policy had also recently changed in order to offer greater discretion regarding sums under £25,000. He acknowledged that it was largely coincidental that it was happening during the Covid-19 lockdown, seeing as the relevant consultation took place six months ago. However, the present situation meant it was more important than ever to consider social value and the wider consequences of council policy.

The Cabinet Member Healthy Lifestyles emphasised that there was a real opportunity to equip disadvantaged residents with skills and support that will benefit them in the future. She added that young people were suffering extensively from the economic consequences of pandemic, and Cheltenham had a chance to lead the way through recovery.

The Cabinet Member Housing welcomed the report, and added that calculating social value had proved tricky in the past, so it was good that a concrete framework had been provided. He hoped that the council could reap the benefits in years to come.

The Leader thanked colleagues and officers for the work put into the report, and moved to a vote, which was carried unanimously.

RESOLVED THAT:

1.    The social value policy attached as appendix 2 be agreed.