SV Fest Day 1: Introduction to Social Value and ECC Social Value Priorities

This session opens the Social Value Festival and will set the context for the week’s activities by introducing Social Value and how it can contribute social, economic and environmental benefits to our communities. A key event for anyone considering supplying goods, services or works to Essex County Council now or in the future.

Colleagues across Essex County Council and leading experts will reflect on challenges and opportunities in the region, as well the role of Local Authorities, Public Procurement, local businesses, ‘anchor institutions’ (large employers in the county), small businesses and Voluntary Community and Social Enterprises.

We are pleased to welcome our keynote speaker Professor Chris White, the author of the Social Value Act (2012), currently Director of the Industrial Policy and Insight Centre at the Manufacturing Technology Centre and a visiting Professor of Industrial Strategy at Loughborough University. Professor Chris White will share with us the original aspirations for the Social Value Act from the outset, the progress that has been made and the opportunities he sees for local economic growth.

We will then hear from Samantha Butler, ECC Social Value Lead and Cabinet Office Head of Social Value Skills and Engagement about Essex County Council’s approach to Social Value and the launch of the Social Value Catalogue.

In the second half of this event, we will breakout into 3 thought-provoking discussions groups. These will be led by an expert panel and then open up to questions. NB: when booking, you need to choose a ticket that includes the breakout session you would like to attend. You will then be automatically transferred to that breakout group on the day. Please find below more information about each session:

• Breakout session 1 ‘Social Value: The Opportunity for Vendors ‘ will look at the case for social value from the vendor’s perspective. You’ll hear from those who have done it and how.

• Breakout session 2 ‘Social Value and the Climate’ will explore how, social value can help us to contribute to addressing environmental challenges. Environment is one of the Essex County Council Social Value Priorities. You’ll hear from senior officers and experts in the field.

• Breakout session 3 ‘Social Value: Creating New jobs and Skills’ will cover Essex County Council ‘Employment, Skills and Youth’ priorities and share a range of employment opportunities hearing from senior officers and practitioners their experience with inclusive and entry-level employment.

We hope that you can join us for this exciting event. You may also be interested in other Social Value Festival events, focusing on different sectors and priorities.