Social Value Returns
It's that time of year again when we reach out to our suppliers to capture all of the social value that has been delivered through Fusion21 contracts over the previous financial year - 1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025.
Please note, these returns are separate to the financial valuations that you submit to Fusion21.
Social Value remains an integral part of Fusion21. More than ever, our public sector members are focused on delivering social impact in the areas where they work and making sure that every £1 of contract spend delivers benefits for local people.
What are the Social Value Returns, and how do they differ from valuations?
Social Value Returns are collected annually. We send you a prepopulated Excel spreadsheet listing live contracts on our frameworks with over £100k spend for the previous financial year. You’ll be asked to record the social value delivered against each contract. This differs from valuations, which are submitted quarterly to confirm contract spend and do not include social value activity.
The Social Value Returns template looks different this year- why is that?
The process itself looks a little different, we’ve updated our Social Value Credit model to better reflect where impact is needed most. You’ll still see familiar outcomes like jobs, apprenticeships, and volunteering — but we’ve added new ones too, like green jobs, digital inclusion, and support for those previously unemployed. We’re also introducing a few sustainability questions to help us align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Does Social Value apply to all contracts?
Social Value Returns are required for all contracts with a value over £100k in the last 12 months. Consultants on our Consultants Framework have the option to aggregate their social value delivery over all Fusion21 contracts (once the combined value exceeds £100k).
Why is Social Value required?
As a proud provider of procurement with purpose, social value is at the heart of Fusion21, and we’re passionate about delivering social value you can see. As well as social value being at the core of Fusion21’s identity it is also a requirement under clause 24 of your framework agreement. Please refer to this document for more details.
What is the Social Value target, and what happens if we exceed or fall short?
The target is 10 Social Value Credits per £100k of contract spend. All contract data is pre-filled on the return. If you exceed the target, great! If you fall short, please contact the Social Value Team to discuss how and when the gap will be addressed.
How do I know what counts as social value?
Refer to the Social Value Credit Model in your return — all definitions are clearly outlined in the relevant tab.
I’ve never done this before — what support is available?
Don’t worry. We’re here to help. We can send last year’s submission (if available), arrange a Teams call, and guide you through the process.
What if we’re unsure who in our business is responsible for this?
Please get in touch with us to discuss. Someone needs to be allocated to take ownership of the return, as this is a contractual obligation. We're happy to support you.
I’m struggling to meet the deadline — what should I do?
Please get in touch with us as soon as possible. The return should take no more than 30 minutes to complete, but if you’re experiencing any delays, we’d much rather have a conversation with you early so we can agree a way forward.