The Social Value Bill
The UK’s first "Public Services (Social Enterprise and Social Value) Bill" is one important step closer to becoming law. The Public Services (Social Enterprise and Social Value) private member's bill, introduced by Conservative MP Chris White, will now go to the committee stage for more debate. The bill proposes that all public bodies should seek to improve local economic, social and environmental well-being by incorporating social value into procurement decisions. Read more at http://www.socialenterpriselive.com/section/news/policy/20101119/social-value-bill-passes-critical-debate-commons.
Or follow its progress at the parliament website
We will keep you informed of further developments on this issue.
Summary of the Bill
The Bill aims to strengthen the social enterprise business sector and make the concept of 'social value' more relevant and important in the placement and provision of public services.
Key areas
* Places a duty on the Secretary of State to publish a 'national social enterprise strategy' to encourage engagement in social enterprise
* Amends Section 4 of the Local Government Act 2000 so that local authorities are required to include in their sustainable community strategy proposals for promoting engagement with social enterprise in their area. They must also include a statement of the measures suggested to enable social enterprise to participate in implementing these proposals
* Requires local authorities, when entering into public procurement contracts, to give greater consideration to economic, social or environmental wellbeing during the pre-procurement stage.
Latest News
Hurd hints at legal definition for social enterprise
Former Communities Secretary Hazel Blears MP has called for a legal definition for social enterprises, while minister for civil society Nick Hurd has conceded that such a definition may be required. Read the article at: http://www.civilsociety.co.uk/finance/news/content/10800/hurd_hints_at_legal_definition_for_social_enterprise
'Social value' to become factor in public services
Councils, government departments and bodies like the NHS could be required to consider "social value" - as well as cost - when awarding contracts. Read the article at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-15375061