bth

East London council’s social value policy brings rewards to community

A report recently published by Barking and Dagenham Council has shown how local people are benefiting hugely from its Social Value Policy. 

Careers and apprenticeship placements, school maintenance programmes, food and essentials, and much more have all been secured through the policy over the past year. 

Barking and Dagenham’s Social Value Policy requires that companies working with the council must invest in community programmes and initiatives. The requirement only applies to companies that the council is spending £100k or more with. 

Investment over 2025/26 has focused on three key priorities: support for schools and colleges, cost of living support and volunteering programmes.  

Some of the key outputs for the past year include: 

  • 55 roles and eight apprenticeships offered to residents; 

  • £66k in-kind donations spent on electrical works, cooking projects, books, toys community organisations, and more; 

  • 80 volunteering days providing school maintenance and repairs, tree planting and careers events; 

  • Food, IT equipment, baby supplies, and more all donated to schools and community groups. 

Added to this, through the council’s Section 106 planning powers, 211 jobs for local people were secured at major developments. 

Cllr Rubina Siddiqui, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy and Skills, said: 

“I’m really pleased to see our Social Value Policy working as intended and being used to improve the lives of so many residents.  

“Using the council’s buying power we have focused suppliers on employment and education opportunities – giving people in Barking and Dagenham the skills they need to help themselves. 

“We’ve also been able to use our buying powers to secure essential items for people in need – something I'm proud of and showing the real, tangible difference we’re making to people’s lives” 

A resident who has gained an apprenticeship placement in social care through the Policy, said: “As an apprentice I'm gaining invaluable experience across all departments. This role is directly shaping my future aspirations by providing practical skills and knowledge.” 

You can find out more about the council’s Social Value Policy here and more details about our wider employment and skills programmes here: B&D Opportunities