Building strong foundations for social value and wellbeing into property development projects.
Carbon-zero, carbon-offsetting, reduced emissions, energy conservation, habitat preservation... the environmental to-do list for the construction industry goes on.
Yet, as of 24 February 2025, public procurement in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will be governed by the Procurement Act 2023, reflecting the UK government’s renewed emphasis on social value, on top.
The term 'social value' relates to a business’ holistic consideration of its economic, social and environmental impact, and how it can improve the areas around its projects.
Make no mistake: it’s not an ‘either/or’. It absolutely includes the environmental actions we have to take to address the climate crisis, and protect our resources by using them more efficiently or sourcing sustainable ones.
But the difference with the concept of social value is that, in contrast to the tech-speak of ‘green industry’ that can sometimes shut down conversations, it brings people very much to the fore. It’s about boosting quality work and education, nature and health, and finding opportunities to design in wellbeing - all the emerging metrics of business success.
There’s an exciting opportunity here.
Hands-on, practical people, whose efforts are often shown through the visual medium of ‘good work, well done’, can find it hard to envisage scientific outcomes far in the future, perhaps in a faraway land,
in a lingo that - let’s be honest - few of us truly have time to learn.
But with a social value-led approach, we can make positive decisions here and now, through innovative projects that inspire clients and forge happy communities. Bit by bit, our dots will connect, and our outcomes will all add up to the same bigger picture.
In short, if we use social value as the starting point for our projects and partnerships, we’ll find ourselves already well-equipped to work towards a more equitable and environmentally-sound future - and reaping the rewards in real time along the way.
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Here are some ideas on how to build social value and wellbeing into your project.
Perhaps you’re already doing some, and hadn’t realised? Great! Set them in stone, and start spreading the word.
People
Multiple stakeholders
Expanding from a shareholder to stakeholder mindset involves considering everyone and everything your project might affect along the way. Balancing pros and cons for all stakeholders avoids costly obstacles, and generates the ongoing support and goodwill from concept stage that leads to a strong reputation.
Local teams
Building trade teams local to your project benefits the environment by reducing commutes and related emissions. But it also reduces stress, and improves retention, increasing camaraderie and support. With
that, investment in skills can follow, boosting your quality and efficiency and supporting the future economy in turn.
Inclusive design
Design can cover many themes, from aesthetic and ambience, to maximum storage and space. But what about security, technology. access, mobility and infrastructure? Considering an ageing population and people with different needs and abilities, solutions both now and in the future are increasingly high on the agenda.
Product
Ethical procurement
Responsibly sourcing every single product can be tricky, especially in a global marketplace with long, opaque supply chains. But somewhere between conscience and legislation, there is new urgency to find suppliers who look after people and the planet. Creating a bespoke supplier criteria and checklist sheet is a simple first step.
Artisan makers
Big brands are often the first stop for furniture and finishing touches. But convenience can conceal the talent on our doorsteps. Local artists and makers offer unique quality, focal points and story through craft and reclamation, as well as the means to make a contribution to the local economy and show ongoing support for the wider community.
Toxin-free
Choosing the right surfaces and materials to avoid the presence of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) is vital, as their levels in UK homes exceed global guidelines. Emitted from paints, furniture, flooring and soft furnishings, their inhalation causes illness. Researching and specifying VOC-free products is key.
Place
Light and airy
Natural light not only allows us to switch our lights o less, but boosts our moods, wellbeing and immune systems, and reduces stress and anxiety. Combine that with a flow of fresh air that rids our homes of toxins and moisture, and we have the basis of a healthy, uplifting, allergen-free home.
Blended with nature
Working with nature is vital for future business; using renewable materials that can be recycled will protect our critical resources. But respecting the landscape, considering the setting, and reflecting it with a clear aspect and biophilic design, creates a calming and aromatic space which aids focus and relieves stress.
Productive spaces
We usually associate ‘productivity’ solely with work, but it also means getting to do more of what we enjoy. Pastimes are prevalent with so much more time now spent at home. So, workspace, yes, of course - but planting, cooking, reading, studying, art, craft, music, too - what other inspiring nooks could be created?
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Carra Santos is a strategic thinking and communication specialist with over 15 years' experience at the intersection of creativity, innovation and behavioural insights. She explores what enables - and what inhibits - more sustainable ways of working and living, so we can navigate more effectively towards them.