Social value

Wider benefits a contract brings, such as local jobs, apprenticeships, carbon cuts or support for small businesses. UK central government scores it as part of the bid, typically at least 10% of the total.

Related terms

Evaluation criteria

How the buyer will score bids: the questions or factors, how many points each is worth, and how price is weighed against quality. They are published in the tender and must be followed.

Community benefits

Commitments in a bid to help the area or community where the work happens, such as hiring locally or training. The term is common in Canada, Scotland and Australia.