Navigating PPN 002: Maximising Social Value in 2025 Bids

11th July 2025

In October 2025, PPN 002’s updated Social Value Model becomes mandatory for central government contracts. With Procurement Act 2023, MEAT has been replaced with MAT — giving you the chance to present a tender that delivers real social, economic and environmental impact. Here’s how to stand out:

1. Plan: Choose the Most Relevant Mission & Outcome

PPN 002 aligns with five Government “missions” (economic growth, clean energy, safer streets, equal opportunity, NHS support) and eight outcomes reflect these missions (techuk.org).
Tip: In preliminary market engagement choose one mission outcome that aligns with both the subject matter and your strengths, then tailor your question and criteria accordingly .

2. Insert & Refine the Model Question & Award Criteria

Download the PPN 002 model question and Award Criteria (MACs) from GOV.UK (gov.uk).
Edit slightly to reflect market feedback—omit disproportionate sub‑criteria but keep core metrics so your bid can be meaningfully scored.

Real‑World Example:
A local greenspace contract used Outcomes 4 (sustainable procurement) and 7 (pipeline for under‑represented groups). Their question asked: “How will you deliver X m² of accessible green space and recruit Y% from under‑represented groups?” They tied answers to specific person‑hours, area measures and committee oversight.

3. Weight & Integrate: Hit That 10%+ Social Value Threshold

All in‑scope bids must include a minimum 10% weighting for social value — many contracts now ask up to 30%.
Make Social Value a distinct section in your evaluation table and link milestones, KPIs and governance directly to contractual commitments.

4. Commit, Deliver & Measure with Clarity

Successful bids outline:

 

Section Detail
Commitment What, who, when, scale
Delivery Plan Tasks, governance, milestones
Measurement Use standard KPI or propose your quantifiable alternative

 

Tech suppliers are advised to focus on “Skills for Growth” — include T‑Levels or apprenticeships for digital roles.

5. Show Real Impact: Use Data, Collaborate & Be Transparent

  • Use tools & reporting frameworks like TOMs or Social Value Portal.
  • Build real collaboration: partner with VCSEs, advertise local roles on Find a Job, include SMEs — all part of PPN 002 compliance.
  • Make case studies part of your bid. Example: an FM provider reported £70,000 in quantifiable local social outcomes from community partnerships.

Need Help? We’ve Got You Covered

Our team offers bespoke support at every stage—from crafting winning social-value questions to full-proposal delivery.

Ready to win more 2025 bids? Get a quote now:

Final Take

PPN 002 is your opportunity to move beyond boilerplate social value statements towards genuine, measurable community and environmental impact. Follow this step‑by‑step guide to build bids that score—and deliver—on Social Value in 2025 and beyond.

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