Procurement

Harrow’s commitment to social value in procurement

In January 2013 The Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012 (the ‘Social Value Act’) became law. It requires the Council to explore ways to improve economic, social and environmental well-being. The council must now explore procurement processes of works contracts, subject to public procurement regulations.

We adopted a Social Value Policy in line with regulations. This builds on the Social Value Act. In all procurements, we must consider economic, social and environmental wellbeing. We must also measure the benefits for our communities.

The Social Value agenda is a high priority. Our intention is that delivery of contracts will meet the objectives below:

• New employment opportunities resulting from delivery of this contract. To be shared with Harrow residents in the same way, so others can compete (including those who are currently without work). This ensures they have the free and fair opportunity to compete for opportunities.
• A commitment to work with the Council to identify how opportunities will be delivered. This is particularly for the young people of Harrow, through contract delivery. Such opportunities will include:
  • new apprenticeships
  • training
  • skills development opportunities 
  • college/school talks
• An Employer Guide to Apprenticeships can be found here.
• This contract provides suppliers in Harrow free and fair opportunity to compete for sub-contracting and supply chain opportunities. Other suppliers can compete for those opportunities.
• Negative environmental impacts will be minimised.

Information on sustainability and climate change

In 2019 the Council declared a Climate Emergency. This was in response to the serious consequences of human induced greenhouse gas emissions.

We aim to be carbon neutral by 2030. We will achieve this by taking into account both production and consumption of emissions. A key action identified is the use of procurement processes for low carbon goods and services via its supply chain.

For more details, see the Council’s draft strategic response to the climate crisis and its interim action plan.

West London Alliance - Low Carbon Emissions Supplier Training

Together with other West London Alliance boroughs, we aim to reduce the carbon emissions in our supply chains. We have developed a Low Carbon Supplier Charter and Low Carbon Procurement Policy. The intention is that our suppliers commit to joining us in reducing emissions. Together we can contribute to securing a cleaner and greener planet.

We recently delivered training to SMEs in our supply chain. Please watch the video of the training below. It has useful information for anyone wishing to tender for public sector opportunities.