What is the Social Value Quality Mark?

The SVQM is the UK’s leading independent accreditation for organisations that deliver, measure, and embed social value. It recognises genuine commitment to creating positive impact — from community investment and sustainability to inclusive employment and ethical supply chains. SVQM is a proud social enterprise in its own right and a member of @Social Enterprise UK.

Why does the SVQM Matter?

Under the new Public Procurement Act, social value claims are coming under increasing scrutiny, and some less scrupulous organisations are being accused of ‘value-washing’ – making misleading claims about their commitment to positive impact. In the private sector, investors increasingly look for solid ESG credentials. So, the need for a UK-wide standard – a way to benchmark and verify value – has never been greater. In these changing times, SVQM stands for the highest standards of transparency, ethics and fairness. It’s a symbol to procurement teams, customers, investors and employees of business that benefits communities.

How does it differ to other certifications?

The SVQM is the only independently awarded mark of its kind in the UK. Like an ISO, it provides quality assurance of high standards. Whereas B-Corp certification is a global movement, SVQM is focussed on the specific needs of UK systems and communities. It also has a tiered charging model – making it more accessible for small organisations and VCSEs with a modest turnover. While many certifications focus on environmental sustainability, the SVQM looks at social sustainability with the environment as one core strand.

Who recognises the accreditation?

SVQM has accredited or is working with around 400 organisations spanning all sectors and industries. This includes major corporates such as Kier Transportation, CGI, Equifax, ACI Group, Capita, PwC and Moran Sindall Construction; charities such as Alzheimer’s Society and Age Concern; public sector organisations including councils, higher education, NHS Trusts and commissioning units; and numerous smaller charities and SMEs.

We are increasingly recognised by UK local authorities, over 150 of which are actively using our tools and resources.

How is the SVQM’s independence assured?

The SVQM operates an independent Oversight Panel made up of social value and compliance leaders from across the private, public and third sectors. The panel exists to uphold the highest levels of transparency and trust. It ensures awards are made fairly, consistently and in line with the required standards.
SVQM is also ‘framework agnostic’ – we recognise evidence from multiple sources, frameworks, platforms and third parties – providing it is credible, proportionate and transparent.

What does the SVQM align to?

The SVQM aligns with:

England: Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012, the Procurement Act 2023. Public Procurement Notes 06/20 and 002/3.

Wales: Future Generations Act, Social Partnerships and Public Procurement Act, Welsh Public Procurement Note 01/2 and 003.

Scotland: Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012, Community Empowerment Act 2015, Scotland Public Procurement Note 10/20, 03/22, 02/25 the Procurement Act 2023. Public Procurement Notes 06/20 and 002/3. Community Benefits Act, Sustainable Procurement Duty and Social Value Act.

Northern Ireland: Public Procurement Note 01/21, Public Services (Social Value) Act 2013, Procurement Act 2023.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals and NHS Social Value Playbook.

We believe we are mature in social value. Can I skip a level?

We understand organisations vary in experience, knowledge and maturity. You may be eligible for our fast-track option, which allows you to be audited and awarded Bronze and Silver simultaneously.

We use an online measurement tool. Can the output from this be used as evidence?

Simply, yes. We will require access to the tool to review data and information.

We have received ‘Impact Assured’ certification. Can this be used towards the Social Value Quality Mark accreditation?

Yes, we can draw on the findings from Impact Assured, which will reduce the sample size needed at the contract delivery level.

How do I know I am ready for Bronze?

It’s straightforward to get started at Bronze – the main requirement is a commitment to the process and a genuine desire to create positive impact. Drop us a line and speak with one of our team. We can discuss your current position and confirm readiness. Alternatively, we have a wealth of information outlining the requirements on our website and Bronze webpage.

How much will accreditation cost?

Costs are aligned to your previous year’s financial accounts. Costs started from £495 + VAT for Bronze.

Does the Quality Mark align to a particular methodology, framework, or tool?

We are completely agnostic; therefore, we align with and recognise the majority of the current approaches to social value.

How long does the audit for Silver, Gold, Platinum take?

On average, we recommend you allow 4 to 6 weeks from the start to the presentation of findings and the award outcome. During this time, we will review documents, engage with internal and external stakeholders, analyse, and report back on findings.

Is the QM suitable for me?

The QM is designed to be suitable, relevant and proportionate for Public, Private and Third Sector organisations throughout the UK and will showcase your quality standards within social value to your stakeholders, funders, investors and buyers.

We are part of a group structure. How does this affect or restrict my ability to apply for the Quality Mark?

We can audit and award individual businesses, business units, services and group structures alike. The only restriction we place on the Group structure is that the group can only claim the lowest level QM that has been awarded.

Help, we need support. Can you provide assistance to help us achieve accreditation and enhance our social value position?

Yes, we can provide coordinated external and independent consultancy and support through our sister company, Social Value Business. For the best chance of success, ask for details of guided workshops, mentoring and full package services. www.socialvaluebusiness.com / info@socialvaluebusiness.com

Will the report help us understand how we fare against our competitors and across sectors?

Our thorough audit reports give you detailed insights into recommendations and improvements. You will be provided with information on how your ‘score’ compares to others. Additionally, you will be included in the National Index of Social Value, which will serve as a league table for social value.

How can we prepare for the audit and embedded quality social value processes, behaviour and delivery?

We can provide two options. Firstly, we can train and accredit dedicated social value internal auditors within your organisation, who can test, challenge and update processes, delivery pathways and support a values-based culture. Secondly, we can provide professional development pathways for nominated social value managers, leads and sponsors. Contact us to find out more.

Do we need to be reaudited annually?

No, it is not a specific requirement to be audited annually. from Silver to Platinum. This is bi-annual. However, if you wish to move through the levels quicker, then you are able to move from Silver to Gold, Gold to Platinum per year.

What are the 9 standards / areas within the audit process?

We review and analyse different categories during the audit: Plan, Demonstrate, Calculate, Ecosystem, Report, Trust, Performance manage, Culture, Influence & Leadership. The first 5 categories apply to all awards, Trust & Performance Manage apply at Gold and above, and all 9 standards apply at Platinum.

What happens if we fail the audit?

You will be eligible to be re-audited within 6 weeks of the notification of the original audit. The re-audit will focus on areas of weakness and non-compliance only. The cost of the re-audit is 25% of the original audit cost.