Social value strategy 2026-28

Content

Strategy foreword
Where are we now
Summary
The social value opportunity
Why do we need to act
The strategy
Strategy implementation
- Policy and vision
  - Lancashire TOMs
  - Social value policy
  - Social value websites
  - Lancashire TOMs mapping
  - Social value annual statement
- Governance, management and reporting
  - Social value governance
  - Resource bank and training programme
  - Social value evolution
- Commissioning and procurement
  - Standardised approach
  - Social value templates
  - Consistent evaluation and marking
  - Local needs platform
  - Category plan guidance
- Market engagement and collaboration
  - Early market engagement
  - Social value forums
  - Greater Lancashire approach
- Contract management
  - Qualitative delivery plan
  - Social value reporting
  - Case studies
Contact
Appendix 1 Lancashire TOM's Guidance

Strategy foreword

This strategy presents information about the Authority's vision, values, objectives and diagnostic analysis before it addresses the strategy. This is intentional; the strategy was developed based on an understanding of our corporate values and priorities, our strengths, challenges, and opportunities to deliver social value. While the strategy may be read in isolation, it is best understood when prefaced with context.

After outlining the themes and priority areas, the bulk of the strategy offers short, medium, and long-term actions advising how we will deliver these priorities.

This strategy has been co-created with the Social Value Portal (SVP). SVP has supported the Authority to:

Define an overall social value direction in relation to the needs and wants of the Authority, the local area and common priorities across Directorates and the LEP.
Integrate a developed approach with a measurable social value plan to support the Authority in delivering better services, protecting our environment, supporting economic growth and caring for the vulnerable in our society.
Make decisions which inform a policy which can be shared internally and externally.

Colleagues across the Authority have collaborated through a series of online surveys and workshops to understand the main social value challenges. As a result, an overall direction of travel has become clearer to guide our approach to social value delivery, management and measurement for the Lancashire region.

Where are we now?

The Authority undertook a social value diagnostic exercise to understand where we are now. Whilst table 1 outlines the diagnostic results, the assessment reviewed:

23 questions explored across five core elements of activity that constitutes social value creation in Lancashire.
responses were collated to recognise where LCC is performing well alongside areas of challenge.
Priority issues were identified that will support embedding social value across the Authority.

Summary

The diagnostic reviewed, collated from responses provided during the social value workshops, recognise where LCC is performing well alongside areas of challenge.

Social value diagnostic summary of strengths and challenges.

Key areas of strength

Mature sectors demonstrating best practice: Construction, LEP projects and Foundations for Wellbeing toolkit already have social value embedded.
Social value is often considered at early stages: Although no common practice exists across LCC Service Areas, this is still considered.
Awareness that approach relies on sector maturity and capabilities: Some tenders are formed with social value as the key outcome whilst others expect this as one of the key outcomes
Collaboration is already happening to achieve outcomes: LCC and LEP do work in partnership with a wide range of public and private bodies to maximise social value e.g. Care Leaver Covenant, Employment & Skills, Armed Forces Covenant.
Need to balance where impact can be achieved: SME's make up the vast majority of the supply basis in Lancashire, however the larger value projects (that hold the greatest opportunity for the least involvement) are usually pushed for social value reporting and return.
Some case studies exist: Case studies are produced capturing activity across some LCC/LEP higher profile projects.

Key areas of challenge

No Cabinet member sponsor
Policy is dated: LCC's Social Value Policy was drafted in response to the original legislation.
Corporate plan lacks explicit connection to social value.
No targeted measurement framework: The application and monitoring of social value metrics is ad hoc, with performance monitoring being a particular challenge.
Council-wide buy in: Mixed feelings regarding appetite for social value. Some feel it exists, others feel social value does not appear to be high profile, or the concern is in a specific theme only e.g. environmental.
Reporting progress: Social value progress and performance is reported into respective Programme Management Boards, LEP board etc but not clear if this is an approach which is mirrored across Service Areas.
Social value consistency: There are good examples but not consistent across LCC.
Social value evaluation: Quantitative social value assessment not done as standard.
Seeing procurement commitments through to the contract has been an ongoing challenge.

The social value opportunity

With the release of the ‘New Deal for a Greater Lancashire’ (2050 vision), the strategic framework provides a platform by which to launch a dedicated Lancashire TOMs (Themes, Outcomes & Measures) framework that brings our 2050 new deal priorities together in a way that has been missing before.

An agreed Lancashire TOMs framework (Themes, Outcomes & Measures) unlocks the ability to standardise a standalone weighting. It allows procurement to follow a simple approach right through to contract management that intentionally doesn’t create multiple layers of complexity. A more sophisticated approach should evolve with time once the basics have been mastered across categories.

Why do we need to act

The Authority's vision is to help everyone make Lancashire the best place to live, work, visit and prosper. To support this, we need to work more closely with our partners and supply chain to help people anticipate their own needs and take greater responsibility for themselves and their communities.

The financial challenges we continually face mean that we must focus on the most vital services. Through our buying power, we can support both our supply chain and our communities to create a strong sense of place we can all be proud of.

A local needs analysis was conducted to provide information and insights about the areas that we need to support. A snap shot of some of these insights are below, but the key takeaway is that this message must be shared with our suppliers to focus social value where it's needed most.

Pockets of deprivation can be seen within the county, especially Hyndburn and Burnley experiencing the largest amounts of high to severe overall deprivation compared to other areas of the county.
Burnley and Hyndburn also experience a significant amount of high to severe employment deprivation with 68.3% and 65.4% respectively compared to other areas of the county.
5% of businesses in Lancashire are micro businesses, with the three key enterprise groups being in construction, professional, scientific & technical services and retail.
Lancashire experiences the greatest high to severe deprivation in the domain of barriers to housing and services. Focus on health initiatives, supporting those in carer roles and those vulnerable to reoffending and drug misuse are high priorities for Lancashire.
Areas such as Preston are experiencing more than double high to severe outdoor living environment deprivation at 50% whilst the North West experiences 20.4%.

The strategy

Strengthening our social value partnerships with our supply chain to improve the economic, social and environmental outcomes for Lancashire. This will be achieved through:

Cabinet member to have oversight of social value,
Dedicated TOMs framework that reflects Lancashire's corporate priorities,
Standard, standalone weighting for all procurement's,
Published Policy with supporting webpage & tender packs,
Map ‘match making’ organisations or departments to TOMs measures,
Training programme to upskill staff in social value, and
Sharing of best practice and accessible needs assessments.

Strategy implementation

Policy and vision

Lancashire TOMs
Social Value policy
Social value websites
Lancashire TOMs mapping
Social Value annual statement

Governance, management and reporting

Social Value governance
Resource bank and training programme
Social Value evolution

Commissioning and procurement

Standardised approaches
Social Value templates
Consistent evaluation and marking
Local Needs platform
Category plan guidance

Market engagement and collaboration

Early market engagement
Social Value forums
Greater Lancashire approach

Contract management

Qualitative delivery plan
Social Value reporting
Case studies

1. Lancashire TOMs

Based on the Social Value Portal (SVP) TOMs framework, the Lancashire TOMs build on these social value founding principles to:

Themes – aligned to our LCC corporate priorities
Outcomes – with our objectives, and
Measures – as measurable activities.

This foundation enables all Directorates within the Authority to focus on social value generating efforts that are targeted and aligned to complementing strategies, at the same time allowing flexibility and proportionate contribution per service area. Full version is available within Appendix 1.

2. Social value policy

Aim for a short, simple Policy that uses plain English.

Purpose

The Policy will communicate simply what the LCC approach to social value creation is, including our strategic Themes and Outcomes. It will be promoted on a dedicated webpage.

Scope

As part of our partnership, SVP have drafted an external facing LCC Social Value Policy. The Policy aim is an external articulation of the actions and strategy outlined in this document. It includes a simple definition of what it means to LCC as part of our new deal

Audience

The Policy document is high level so can be aimed at all suppliers, colleagues and partners so that any social value activities undertaken including procurement and community activities are informed by the policy.

Any policy should be short, plain English and simple. The Authority's LCC Policy will be structured as follows:

Policy vision & scope
Introduction
Policy objectives
Achieving our social value ambitions & measurement framework
Governance
Useful links

3. Social value websites

Engaging content online

To complement our Social Value Policy, we will create a dedicated webpage online to publish all detail related to social value delivery, coordination and best practice inspiration.

In 2021, only 151 out of 332 Authorities in England had published their social value approach online. A webpage is a simple solution to make our approach to social value more accessible, engaging and current.

We will start with a simple page that could be added to over time, which will include:

A detailed Social Value framework (TOMs) - staff will be able to find information on the Outcomes and Measures (including Measure definition and evidence requirements) at any time.
Local Needs Analysis information – to help bidders and colleagues better target initiatives to the areas of Lancashire that need social value support.
Match-making TOMs map of potential partners to engage with to deliver specific outcomes.
Presentations, webinars and recordings for new staff to use to upskill and existing staff to refer to - resources will be found through the National Social Value Taskforce and SVP annual conference.
Links to all external-facing documents (e.g. Social Value Policy, Social Value Statements, annual report).
Message board - to share any upcoming initiatives or Social Value events.
LCC case studies - these will be both internal and external to aid idea generation.
LCC annual Social Value Statement.
Lessons learned & feedback - process managed by the Cross Sector Advisory Group.
FAQs - recurring questions, points of contact (Social Value Champions, Lead) etc.

4. Lancashire TOMs mapping

Coordinated activity

By mapping the Lancashire TOMs with LCC service areas that already offer support and guidance, such as the Lancashire Skills & Employment Hub, we can help our market understand how best to plan their social value commitments and delivery in a coordinated way. Think of it like a ‘match making’ guide.

We will publish a version of this mapped TOMs in collaboration with the partners on the social value website to signpost a menu of initial ideas to guide our market towards social value activity in Lancashire that meets our priorities and objectives.

Best practice example from Suffolk County Council:

Published their ‘Social Value Ask’, a match making guide of practical examples and partners who can support delivery for each measure in their TOMs set.
It is kept up to date as new initiatives and credible partners establish initiatives that suppliers can contribute to through measure activity.
Ensure hyperlinks and contact details are added where appropriate to make it easy for organisations to collaborate.

5. Social value annual statement

Communicate progress

To demonstrate clarity, transparency and to communicate our future ambitions, we will publish a social value statement, aligned to the LGA template.

The statement is intended to act as a snapshot of our progress at a given point in time, updated on an annual basis. It is designed to be more accessible and less formal than a Policy and will communicate where we're currently at alongside areas of future focus.

The LGA template:

Introduction to the organisations approach and intentions in relation to social value.
Key areas that the organisation will be focusing on.
Communication, co-ordination and internal management i.e. implementation process for Social Value.
Supporting staff to contribute and succeed in delivering the organisations social value ambitions.
Supporting suppliers and partners to contribute to delivering the social value approach i.e. performance management.
Social value achievements to date.
Action plan: How will this statement be delivered.

6. Social value governance

A Cabinet Member will be ultimately accountable for the delivery of this strategy.

They are to be supported by the Executive Director for Resources and Director of Finance, given the aspiration from the working group for social value to be a central function.

The Resources Executive Director and Finance Director to ensure:

Supported by Procurement Head of Service for strategy oversight.
Dedicated resource in the Corporate Policy and Strategy team to lead strategy implementation.
Sign off Social Value Policy.
Cross Sector Advisory Group* develops and manages the delivery of joined up social value policies.
All relevant staff to have suitable social value KPIs as part of the review process.

* Cross Sector Advisory Group = Representation from Lancashire LEP, Corporate Policy and Strategy team, Planning, Procurement, Commissioning, HR, Investment, Employment & Skills, Growth, Environment and Transport, EDI, Heads of Service, Foundations for Wellbeing

Specific strategy responsibilities to be agreed in key functions, such as:

Cabinet Member – responsible for social value through our operations. The Authority could set three to four core performance metrics (KPIs), such as: Social Value Add % in relation to organisation spend, overall data submission, staff awareness and understanding, own corporate social value delivery.
Executive Director for Resources – responsible for overseeing policy and strategy delivery.
Director – oversee and facilitate the strategy implementation in collaboration with all Directorates. To ensure data capture and reporting to centralised Portal. Also support the mapping of the TOMs framework to potential delivery partners and create resource bank.
Commissioning – Engage with market to understand social value capability for each service area.
Procurement – Responsibility for reviewing supplier compliance, application of social value ask, engaging with commissioners and service areas to agree priority measures for each bid from core LCC TOMs set.
Planning – A review of existing local policies, including a Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) that provides the Authority with the format and content to require developers to make a Social Value response and address Social Value issues as a part of a planning application for major developments.
Investment, Employment & Skills – Feed into TOMs mapped to delivery partners, share new insights into LMI that can be shared to inform local needs.
Corporate comms – Director to share news on best practice for communications team to create case studies and include news on internal channels. Engage to create dedicated social value webpage.

7. Resource bank and training programme

Transfer of knowledge

Communicate the resource commitment LCC is making to upskill staff on social value. Deliver a programme of activity to provide a ‘drumbeat’ of social value engagement with colleagues.

Education programme

Social Value education and training will be delivered via a range of formal and informal throughout the year. Approaches such as lunch & learns, circulating best-practice case studies, sharing winning bid method statements, circulating relevant webinars and e-learning courses. When the TOMs Academy launches, all colleagues involved in procurement and contract management will receive updated training.

Resource bank

We will build and actively promote a resource bank (or toolkit), which will include:

A detailed Social Value framework (TOMs) – staff will be able to find information on the Outcomes and Measures (including Measure definition and evidence requirements).
Link to all external documents (e.g. Social Value Policy, Social Value Statements, annual report, etc.).
LCC case studies – both internal and external to aid idea generation.
Lessons learned & feedback – process managed by the Cross Sector Advisory Group: results and relevant information are shared with the organisation
FAQs – recurring questions, links to useful information (e.g. SVP website, webinars), where things might be located internally, who to talk to (e.g. Corporate strategy team) etc.
Marketing collateral for internal and external use.
Past social value bids and reports – to show ‘what good looks like’ by service are.

8. Social value evolution

As the Authority evolves, the Lancashire TOMs need to evolve with it. As Social Value becomes embedded in the Authority, new objectives and measures will be introduced or refinements made to existing measures.

As part of Cabinet reporting, we will establish initial social value performance metrics that can be evolved annually as we mature in practice. We will make use of our existing Corporate Performance dashboard by adding some additional metrics. Some common metrics that other Authorities report against annually include:

Spend with local suppliers – understand how we can support MSMEs that account for 88% of all Lancashire registered businesses.
Number of Officers who have completed training – track corporate training and take-up
Total Social and Local Economic Add (%) – once data becomes available, we'll be able to aggregation our performance and calculate our ‘Social Value Add %’ in relation to organisational spend. A benchmark can be set and new targets for future years agreed.

9. Standardised approach

To support a consistent approach around Social Value, a standardised approach will be the corner stone of the Authority's Social Value Policy. The key areas that will be standardised are:

£100k minimum threshold for including social value in tenders,
10% minimum weighting for Social Value, and
28 core Lancashire TOMs with no prioritisation, mandatory inclusion, or multipliers

The Lancashire TOMs are designed to keep it simple.

10. Social Value templates

A range of tried and tested templates will be made available to Lancashire staff and tenderers. This will support a consistent application and the initial roll out of social value evaluation, management and measurement. Templates to be available include:

ITT wording that explains Social Value and the evaluation methodology.
Qualitative Delivery Plan template to assist tenderer's demonstrate their ability to deliver against their social value commitment.
Evidence templates to support suppliers in reporting against their Lancashire TOMs commitments.

11. Consistent evaluation and marking

Each tender will have an allocated social value weighting of 10%, which will be evaluated on the following basis:

Quantitative score: the what

Tenderers submit their social value offering based on the Lancashire TOMs. The Lancashire approach provides tenderers with the freedom to propose what they can offer that is relevant and proportional to the contract and their own business operations.

Qualitative score: the how

Tenderers submit evidence to demonstrate how they will deliver against each of the Lancashire TOMs commitments. Responses to the Social Value qualitative section will be evaluated using the LCC standard quality scoring profile.

12. Local needs platform

The most meaningful social value is targeted to meet local needs.

The Authority and its partners have committed to "listening to residents". To ensure our supply chain's social value activity is targeted, insights of the target areas need to be readily available.

As well as sharing insights from all active listening activity undertaken as part of the Lancashire 2050 strategic framework, tThe Authority will take the data from the local needs analysis and provide this via a public-facing interactive map. The map will be user-friendly and suitable manipulation functionality so that the supply chain can filter by the Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) or other thematic layers e.g. by the Lancashire TOMs. A link to the map will be provided to potential tenderers via our ITT, e-tendering portal and shared during market engagement events.

13. Category plan guidance

One size does not fit all when it comes to social value.

The Lancashire TOMs are designed to be a ‘menu’ from which Outcomes and Measures can be selected that are relevant to the underlying contractual activity and aligned with both the Authority’s needs and aspirations and, importantly, the capability of the supply chain to deliver. It is certainly not expected that all measures will be applicable in all circumstances.

As the Authority matures in the application, evaluation and monitoring of our supply chain’s social value, we will aim to analyse and capture the different capacities and capabilities of our service area’s suppliers. It might be that some service areas require specific information to better target their common initiatives.

The Authority aims to build, over time, a simple category plan or guide that captures the opportunities, strengths, and weaknesses of our different service areas social value capabilities. With this insight, we can upskill and better support their market to deliver against the areas they have the most opportunity to contribute.

Good practice will be captured and shared across the different sectors to support a consistent and standardised approach across the Authority.

14. Early market engagement

The Authority will engage with potential suppliers as much as possible on social value. Social value may be new to them, but the Authority can help them build their knowledge to ensure good tender responses and maximise delivery.

This is also an opportunity for the Authority to share priorities with future suppliers. We will create a market engagement presentation and deliver it regularly. The session will describe the overall process and what will be expected from tenderers at each stage of the procurement and contract management cycle. Sessions will be delivered online and in person if suitable across accessible locations.

It will include a presentation of the Lancashire TOMs and the Do’s and Don'ts of Social Value.

We will try to do this in partnership with other Service Areas from the Authority and partners. Partners include job centres, LEP, Integrated Care Boards (ICB), local communities and anyone within the Authority with existing relationships with those organisations to help future suppliers to know where to find what they need in relation to social value delivery within Lancashire.

15. Social value forums

Concept

Developing supplier awareness and understanding of LCC’s social value vision, commitments and requirements is critical to delivering social value.

We will create a platform for radical collaboration by hosting an annual conference style event where we can gather key suppliers, local bidders (including SMEs and VCSEs) and key enabling or delivery organisations, as well as other community partners.

The conference aim is to build knowledge of social value and to facilitate relationships between suppliers and community partners. This is an opportunity to highlight the latest needs and priority data so that suppliers are responding to current issues.

Content

The Authority will use the conference as an opportunity to listen to the different experiences and ideas to gather feedback. The conference will explore the following themes:

What is social value for LCC and Our New Deal?
Local Needs – where should the focus be.
Sectoral focus (Health, Housing, Construction etc.): Opportunities & challenges for the sector.
Case studies of social value in LCC.
Opportunities to collaborate.

Long term, the conference can act as a pre-cursor to a place-based programme with LCC’s anchor institutions.

16. Greater Lancashire approach

To maximise our long-term vision of council-wide action, there is ambition across the Authority to broaden our scope to achieve a more collaborative approach through a ‘place-based programme’ or ‘Social Value Charter’. This is an opportunity to share best practice and help the community in and around Lancashire to unlock more social value.

To achieve this, the Authority will identify key delivery partners, such as ICBs, LEPs, public sector institutions, sectors, businesses, VCSEs and others operating in the Lancashire region. Each of the organisations will have enabling activities and business levers that can be mobilised to target specific community needs (i.e. procurement, planning, grants, and investments). The partners could include:

‘Anchor’ institutions: other councils in the areas, health and education (e.g. University of Central Lancashire), central government (e.g. prison), housing associations, and others.
Suppliers to the public sector: local businesses, MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and VCSEs (Voluntary Community and Social Enterprises).

This action can only be taken once the Authority has aligned, agreed and implemented the Lancashire TOMs and Social Value strategy first, before widening this to anchor institutions and community organisations to ensure successful delivery.

17. Qualitative delivery plan

Roll out a Qualitative Delivery Plan template for contract management. Using templates will support a consistent social value application. Contract management relies on quantitative targets and qualitative evidence. To assist tenderers in capturing the qualitative element of their bid, we will use a tried and tested template from the Social Value Portal. This will be embedded in our contract management approach.

Using this template will help:

Innovate and organise social value delivery plans.
Ease the process of submitting social value target descriptions.
Support the equality of bid submissions across novice and veteran bidders utilising our TOMs.

18. Social value reporting

Due to the volume, range and breath of contracts the Authority lets, our reporting needs to be efficiently structured. We will adopt a quarterly monitoring and reporting of social value with all suppliers. This will cut across the challenges of coordinating against contract timelines and ensure the Authority has a structured reporting cycle. This will also support suppliers that hold multiple contracts with the Authority, reducing the administrative activity to quarterly for all contracts, irrelevant of contract maturity.

19. Case studies

Although Social Value has been around for years and embedded in tenders as standard since 2015, there are not enough ‘best practice’ case studies for social value as a concept.

To support colleagues and suppliers in the habit of capturing their social value delivery, we will create a simple case study template. In the short term, the Authority will produce at least one case study a quarter. Long term, we will make it a contractual obligation that suppliers will be required to write up a short case study of their successful social value delivery.

Good social value delivery should be celebrated, we will publish and share the good news stories to build inspiration locally. We will also use our other social value footholds, such as websites, social media, early market engagement, partnerships and forums to showcase our social value successes.

Contact

Contact details

Appendix 1 Lancashire TOM's Guidance

Reference	Measure	Requirements	Guidance
NT1 Units no. people FTE Proxy Localised by project	Local people employed or retained Definition This Measure covers the employment of local people. Qualifying employees must live in the local area, have an employment contract that reflects the hours they regularly work with a guaranteed minimum working time of 16 hours per week and at least 4 weeks of notice for shifts in the working pattern. The Full Time Equivalent (FTE) calculation must be derived from the length of the employment contract within the reporting period. The Measure requires a definition of the local area.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant local people to be employed or retained. (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes that will be used to employ local people. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant local staff employed or retained with first part of their home postcode and first number of the second part e.g., (SW8 2), (EH42 1), (N1 2) only, and not their names and addresses. (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person.	Unit guidance No. people (FTE) * length of contract (in years) where the maximum number of FTE per person per year is 1.0; A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.
NT3 Units no. people FTE Proxy GBP 51,561	Long-term unemployed people recruited Definition This Measure covers the employment of a person who can be classified as 'Long-term unemployed'. Qualifying employees will have been unemployed for a year or more. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment, and does not include students.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (Long-term unemployed). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes that will be used to employ Long-term unemployed people. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (Long-term unemployed). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was unemployed for at least a year prior to employment with the organisation.	Unit guidance No. people FTE (capped at 1 year per employee); A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.
NT3a Units no. people FTE Proxy GBP 51,561	Long-term unemployed armed forces veterans recruited Definition This Measure covers the employment of an armed forces veteran who can be classified as 'Long-term unemployed'. Qualifying employees will have been unemployed for a year or more. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment and does not include students.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (Long-term unemployed Armed Forces Veterans). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes that will be used to employ Long-term unemployed people. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (Long-term unemployed Armed Forces Veterans). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was unemployed for at least a year prior to employment with the organisation.	Unit guidance No. people FTE (capped at 1 year per employee); A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.
NT4 Units no. people FTE Proxy GBP 53,013	Employees recruited who are Not in Education Employment or Training (16-24 years old) Definition This Measure covers the employment of a person who can be classified as 'not in education employment or training' (NEET). Qualifying employees are 16-24 year olds who are not in formal training, education or any form of paid employment. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment and does not include students, or adults who are long-term unemployed.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (Not in Employment, Education or Training). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes targeting people who are NEET. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (Not in Employment, Education or Training). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person qualified as NEET prior to employment with the organisation.	Unit guidance No. people FTE (capped at 1 year per employee); A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.
NT4a Units no. people FTE Proxy GBP 53,013	Unemployed 16-25 year old care leavers recruited Definition This Measure covers the employment of a person who is an unemployed young care leaver. Qualifying employees are 16-25 year olds who have been in the care of the Local Authority for a period of at least 13 weeks spanning their 16th birthday. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment and does not include students.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (unemployed 16 to 25 year old care leavers). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes targeting 16 to 25 year old care leavers. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (unemployed 16 to 25 year old care leavers). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was a care leaver prior to employment with the organisation and is under 26 years.	Unit guidance No. people FTE (capped at 1 year per employee); A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.
NT76 Units no. people FTE Proxy GBP 50,713	Unemployed people recruited Definition This Measure covers the employment of a person who can be classified as 'unemployed'. Qualifying employees will have been unemployed for at least four weeks. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (unemployed). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes that will be used to employ unemployed people. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (unemployed). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was unemployed for at least four weeks prior to employment with the organisation.	Unit guidance No. people FTE (capped at 1 year per employee); A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.
NT5 Units no. people FTE Proxy GBP 55,922	Unemployed ex-offenders aged 18 and over recruited Definition This Measure covers the employment of a person who is an unemployed ex-offender. Qualifying employees will be aged 18 and over. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (unemployed ex-offenders aged 18 and over). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes targeting rehabilitating or ex-offenders aged 18 and over. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (unemployed ex-offenders aged 18 and over). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was a rehabilitating or ex-offender prior to employment with the organisation.	Unit guidance No. people FTE (capped at 1 year per employee); A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.
NT6 Units no. people FTE Proxy GBP 51,889	Unemployed individuals with disabilities recruited Definition This Measure covers the employment of a person who is unemployed and who has a disability A qualifying employee is "someone with a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ effect on their ability to do normal daily activities" (Equality Act, 2010). The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (unemployed individuals with a disability). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes targeting disabled persons. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (unemployed individuals with a disability). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person had a disability at the time of employment with the organisation.	Unit guidance No. people FTE (capped at 1 year per employee); A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.
NT9 Units no. weeks Proxy GBP 347	Accredited training for new employees Definition This Measure covers new employment with accredited vocational training. Qualifying courses are at level 2 or higher such as: BTEC, City & Guilds, NVQ, HNC, RQF or T-levels. Courses must be completed by the employee and supported by the organisation until qualification is attained. This Measure can only be used to record training opportunities for new employees, not existing employees.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of people on relevant vocational training courses. (2) Expected number of weeks spent on each course per person. (3) Qualification level for each course. (4) Name of accredited training provider(s) if available. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of people on relevant accredited vocational training courses. (2) Number of weeks spent on each course per person. (3) Qualification level for each course. (4) Information on the accredited training provider(s).	Unit guidance Training Weeks; No. weeks of training per person. A week has to include at least 3 training days per week; weeks with fewer training days can only be counted pro rata (total course days divided by 5).
NT9a Units no. weeks Proxy GBP 347	Accredited training for new employees from designated groups Definition This Measure covers new employment of an individual from a designated group with accredited vocational training. Designated groups can include persons who are NEET, under-represented gender and ethnic groups, persons with disabilities, homeless individuals, rehabilitating young offenders, etc. Qualifying courses are at level 2 or higher such as: BTEC, City & Guilds, NVQ, HNC, RQF or T-levels. Courses must be completed by the employee and supported by the organisation until qualification is attained. This Measure can only be used to record training opportunities for new employees, not existing employees.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of people on relevant vocational training courses. (2) Expected number of weeks spent on each course per person. (3) Qualification level for each course. (4) Name of accredited training provider(s) if available. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of people on relevant accredited vocational training courses with the designated group identified for each individual. (2) Number of weeks spent on each course per person. (3) Qualification level for each course. (4) Information on the accredited training provider(s).	Unit guidance Training Weeks; No. weeks of training per person. A week has to include at least 3 training days per week; weeks with fewer training days can only be counted pro rata (total course days divided by 5).
NT10 Units no. weeks Proxy GBP 309.73	Employment of new apprentices Definition This Measure covers the employment of new apprentices at level 2 or higher. Qualifying apprenticeships must follow an established path of progression to ensure timely completion and should be supported by the organisation until complete. This Measure can only be used to record opportunities for new employees and not upskilling for existing employees.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant people (apprentices) to be employed. (2) Expected relevant working time (weeks spent on apprenticeship) per person. (3) Expected qualification level for each apprentice. (4) Name of accredited training provider for each apprentice if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant people (apprentices) employed. (2) Relevant working time (weeks spent on apprenticeship) per person. (3) Qualification level for each apprentice. (4) Information on the accredited training provider for each apprentice.	Unit guidance Employment Weeks; No. weeks of apprenticeship training per person.
NT10a Units no. weeks Proxy GBP 309.73	Employment of new apprentices from designated groups Definition This Measure covers the employment of new apprentices from designated groups at level 2 or higher. Designated groups can include persons who are NEET, under-represented gender and ethnic groups, persons with disabilities, homeless individuals, rehabilitating young offenders, etc. Qualifying apprenticeships must follow an established path of progression to ensure timely completion and should be supported by the organisation until complete. This Measure can only be used to record opportunities for new employees and not upskilling for existing employees.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of relevant people to be employed (apprentices from designated groups) with the designated group to be identified for each individual. (2) Expected relevant working time (weeks spent on apprenticeship) per person. (3) Expected qualification level for each apprentice. (4) Summary of strategy for engaging with individuals from designated groups. (5) Name of accredited training provider for each apprentice if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of relevant people employed (apprentices from designated groups) with the designated group identified for each individual. (2) Relevant working time (weeks spent on apprenticeship) per person. (3) Qualification level for each apprentice. (4) Information on the accredited training provider for each apprentice.	Unit guidance Employment Weeks; No. weeks of apprenticeship training per person.
NT11 Units no. hrs (total session duration) *no. attendees Proxy GBP 110.99	Personalised support to help unemployed people into work Definition This Measure covers the provision of expert-led personalised support to help unemployed people gain work (not including students). Examples include career mentoring, mock interviews, CV advice, careers guidance, etc. Group sessions must be of a small enough size to allow recipients to receive personalised support based on their individual and specific needs. Training can be delivered online or in person. An employee's hours can only be recorded if they have been allocated time during paid working hours or time off in lieu.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of sessions, number of people receiving training and session duration. (2) Description of relevant activity/activities to be delivered, including confirmation that content will be personalised to individual needs. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Number of sessions, number of people receiving training, and duration of sessions and dates. (2) Description of relevant activity/activities delivered, including confirmation that content was personalised to individual needs. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.	Unit guidance Attendee Hours; No. attendees * Session duration (in hours).
NT12 Units no. weeks Proxy GBP 96.53	Meaningful unpaid work placements while Not in Employment Education or Training Definition This Measure covers the provision of unpaid, short-term placements or pre-employment courses that make a meaningful contribution to enabling young people not in employment education or training (NEET) to find gainful employment. The placement must not last more than 8 consecutive weeks (or more than 40 days within a 3-month period) but at least 1 week. The Measure can only be used once per person within a 12-month period.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of participants and weeks of work placements or pre-employment courses per person. (2) Description of each proposed work placement or pre-employment course. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of participants supported with unpaid work placements or pre-employment courses. (2) Duration in weeks of each work placement or pre-employment course. (3) Description of each work placement or pre-employment course.	Unit guidance No. weeks on placement per person. Working days can be counted pro rata (total working days divided by 5) but a week has to include at least 3 working days per week.
NT13 Units no. weeks Proxy GBP 412.38	Meaningful paid work placements Definition This Measure covers the provision of paid work placements that make a meaningful contribution to enabling young people to find gainful employment. The placement can last between 2 weeks and 6 months. The Measure can only be used once per person, within a 12-month period. Examples of meaningful work placements include work on junior-level tasks providing industry experience and insight.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of participants and weeks of paid work placements per person. (2) Description of each proposed paid work placement. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Anonymised list of participants supported with paid work placements. (2) Duration in weeks of each paid work placement. (3) Description of each work placement.	Unit guidance No. weeks on placement per person. Working days can be counted pro rata (total working days divided by 5) but a week has to include at least 3 working days per week.
NT8 Units no. staff volunteering hours Proxy GBP 17.48	Support for students at local educational institutions Definition This Measure covers staff volunteering with pupils and students of local educational institutions. Qualifying activities include corporate presentations, preparing and delivering career talks, curriculum support, literacy support, and specific industry talks. They can take place virtually as well as onsite. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. An employee's volunteering hours can only be recorded if they have been allocated time during paid working hours or time off in lieu.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of staff hours. (2) Description of the types of curriculum support activities to be delivered. (3) Names of proposed educational establishments if known. Evidence required (1) Breakdown of hours spent by staff volunteering. (2) Dates, locations and the types of relevant initiatives. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.	Unit guidance Volunteering Hours; No. volunteering hours per employee per event.
NT50 Units £ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc Proxy GBP 1	Initiatives to promote local skills and employment Definition This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives to increase skills and employment opportunities for local people and create sustainable employment opportunities in response to need, co-designed and co-produced with the community, through pioneering programmes that are scalable. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. Innovative approaches and interventions not covered by other measures can be recorded here.	Target requirements (1) Forecast resources to be invested. (2) Description of the types of initiatives planned, highlighting where there is innovation. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Description of how, where, and the types of activities/investments delivered along with expected impact highlighting where there is innovation. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.	Unit guidance Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).
NT14 Units £ Proxy GBP 0.12	Spend with VCSEs in the supply chain Definition This Measure covers spend with Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprises (VCSE) suppliers. It does not include grants or donations. The qualifying spend must be with organisations within the supply chain that are classified as VCSEs.	Target requirements (1) Forecast £ to be spent (not donations) with VCSEs in supply chain. (2) Types of goods/services, and estimated proportions, to be procured from each VCSE. (3) Names of proposed VCSEs if known. Evidence required (1) Breakdown of £ spent (not donations) with VCSEs in supply chain. (2) Types and quantities of goods/services procured from each VCSE. (3) Names of VCSEs.	Unit guidance Total amount of £ spent with VCSEs in the supply chain.
NT18 Units £ Proxy Localised by project	Spend with local companies in the supply chain Definition This Measure covers spend with local suppliers and reflects the economic and social benefits to the local community. It allows for adjustment by local area and industry. The Measure requires a definition of the local area.	Target requirements (1) Forecast £ to be spent with suppliers in the defined local area. (2) Types of goods/services, and estimated proportions, to be procured. (3) Names of proposed suppliers if known. Evidence required (1) Breakdown of £ spent. (2) Goods/services procured. (3) Name, postcode and industry of suppliers in the defined local area.	Unit guidance Total amount of £ spent with the supply chain within the defined local area.
NT19 Units £ Proxy Localised by project	Spend with local SMEs in the supply chain Definition This Measure covers spend with local suppliers which are Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and reflects the economic and social benefits to the local community. It allows for adjustment by local area and industry. The Measure requires a definition of the local area.	Target requirements (1) Forecast £ to be spent with small or medium sized suppliers in the defined local area. (2) Types of goods/services, and estimated proportions, to be procured. (3) Names of proposed suppliers if known. Evidence required (1) Breakdown of £ spent. (2) Goods/services procured. (3) Name, postcode, industry and company size (small or medium) of suppliers in the defined local area.	Unit guidance Total amount of £ spent with SMEs in the supply chain within the defined local area.
NT15 Units no. staff expert hours Proxy GBP 106.34	Expert support to VCSEs and SMEs Definition This Measure covers employees providing their expertise to Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprises (VCSEs) or Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Qualifying activities include a range of expert-led sessions offering specialist business advice that builds the capacity of VCSEs and SMEs. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. An employee's expert hours can only be recorded if they have been allocated time during paid working hours or time off in lieu.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of employee hours and their relevant qualification/role. (2) Description of the expert support to be provided. (3) Names of organisations to benefit from the advice if known. Evidence required (1) Breakdown of employee hours and their relevant qualification/role. (2) Description of the expert support provided. (3) Identity of organisations benefiting from the advice. (4) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.	Unit guidance Expert Hours; No. expert hours per employee per event.
NT61 Units % Proxy GBP 0	Invoices paid within 30 days Definition This Measure covers the proportion of invoices that are paid within 30 days.	Target requirements (1) Confirmation of maximum 30 day payment policy. (2) Proposal for implementation. Evidence required (1) Confirmation of maximum 30 day payment policy. (2) Documentation evidencing implementation, including recent payment data.	Unit guidance 30-day invoice payment rate; No. invoices paid within 30 days in the period / Total no. invoices due in the period.
NT51 Units £ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc Proxy GBP 1	Initiatives to promote and support responsible business Definition This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives to promote and facilitate responsible and ethical business practices in other organisations. These can be in collaboration with the local business community, and through pioneering programmes that are scalable. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting	Target requirements (1) Forecast resources to be invested. (2) Description of the types of initiatives planned, highlighting where there is innovation. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Description of how, where, and the types of activities/investments delivered along with	Unit guidance Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).
NT27 Units £ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc Proxy GBP 1	Support for initiatives focused on strengthening community networks Definition This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives aimed at the most vulnerable in society. These include elderly social clubs, digital skills training sessions, fitness programmes for persons with disabilities, etc., and can be run in partnership with a VCSE or as part of a company programme. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. Each of the types of support offered should be recorded separately.	Target requirements (1) Forecast resources to be invested. (2) Description of the types of initiatives planned. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Dates, locations and types of initiatives. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.	Unit guidance Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).
NT28 Units £ invested Proxy GBP 1	Support for local community projects through donations Definition This Measure covers financial and in-kind contributions to a range of initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and wellbeing of a community. These include financial and in-kind contributions to community projects and can be run in partnership with a VCSE or as part of a company programme. Each of the types of support offered should be recorded separately in the appropriate categories.	Target requirements (1) Forecast resources to be invested. (2) Description of the types of initiatives planned. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Dates, locations and types of initiatives. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.	Unit guidance Total £ invested; Including cash, equipment, and use of assets (e.g., space).
NT29 Units no. staff volunteering hours Proxy GBP 17.48	Support for local community projects through volunteering Definition This Measure covers staff volunteering on local community projects. Qualifying activities include a range of initiatives geared at improving community wellbeing. These can be run in partnership with a VCSE or as part of a company programme based on local need. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. An employee's volunteering hours can only be recorded if they have been allocated time during paid working hours or time off in lieu.	Target requirements (1) Forecast number of staff hours. (2) Description of the types of local community activities to be delivered. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Breakdown of hours spent by staff volunteering. (2) Dates, locations and the types of relevant initiatives. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.	Unit guidance Volunteering Hours; No. volunteering hours per employee per event.
NT52 Units £ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc Proxy GBP 1	Initiatives to promote more resilient communities Definition This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives to promote the resilience of communities through the education, support, and development of health and wellbeing practices and community safety programmes in collaboration with the local community,	Target requirements (1) Forecast resources to be invested. (2) Description of the types of initiatives planned, highlighting where there is innovation. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Description of how, where, and the types of activities/investments delivered along with expected impact highlighting where there is innovation. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.	Unit guidance Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).
NT53 Units £ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc Proxy GBP 1	Initiatives to safeguard the environment Definition This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives to address the climate emergency and safeguard the environment in response to local conditions, in collaboration with the local community, through pioneering programmes that are scalable. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. Innovative approaches and interventions not covered by other measures can be recorded here.	Target requirements (1) Forecast resources to be invested. (2) Description of the types of initiatives planned, highlighting where there is innovation. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known. Evidence required (1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Description of how, where, and the types of activities/investments delivered along with expected impact highlighting where there is innovation. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.	Unit guidance Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).

Reference

Measure

Requirements

Guidance

NT1

Units
no. people FTE

Proxy Localised by project

Local people employed or retained

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of local people. Qualifying employees must live in the local area, have an employment contract that reflects the hours they regularly work with a guaranteed minimum working time of 16 hours per week and at least 4 weeks of notice for shifts in the working pattern. The Full Time Equivalent (FTE) calculation must be derived from the length of the employment contract within the reporting period. The Measure requires a definition of the local area.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant local people to be employed or retained. (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes that will be used to employ local people. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of relevant local staff employed or retained with first part of their home postcode and first number of the second part e.g., (SW8 2), (EH42 1), (N1 2) only, and not their names and addresses. (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person.

Unit guidance
No. people (FTE) * length of contract (in years) where the maximum number of FTE per person per year is 1.0; A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.

NT3

Units
no. people FTE

Proxy
GBP 51,561

Long-term unemployed people recruited

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of a person who can be classified as 'Long-term unemployed'. Qualifying employees will have been unemployed for a year or more. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment, and does not include students.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (Long-term unemployed). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes that will be used to employ Long-term unemployed people. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (Long-term unemployed). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was unemployed for at least a year prior to employment with the organisation.

Unit guidance
No. people FTE (capped at 1 year per employee); A full-time equivalent (FTE) of 1.0 corresponds to having one person employed at least 35 hours per week for a period of 12 months. If they are employed for a shorter period, the FTE should be calculated at a proportional rate.

NT3a

Units
no. people FTE

Proxy
GBP 51,561

Long-term unemployed armed forces veterans recruited

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of an armed forces veteran who can be classified as 'Long-term unemployed'. Qualifying employees will have been unemployed for a year or more.

The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment and does not include students.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (Long-term unemployed Armed Forces Veterans). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes that will be used to employ Long-term unemployed people. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required

(1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (Long-term unemployed Armed Forces Veterans). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was unemployed for at least a year prior to employment with the organisation.

NT4

Units
no. people FTE

Proxy
GBP 53,013

Employees recruited who are Not in Education Employment or Training (16-24 years old)

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of a person who can be classified as 'not in education employment or training' (NEET). Qualifying employees are 16-24 year olds who are not in formal training, education or any form of paid employment. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment and does not include students, or adults who are long-term unemployed.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (Not in Employment, Education or Training). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes targeting people who are NEET. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (Not in Employment, Education or Training). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person qualified as NEET prior to employment with the organisation.

NT4a

Units
no. people FTE

Proxy
GBP 53,013

Unemployed 16-25 year old care leavers recruited

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of a person who is an unemployed young care leaver. Qualifying employees are 16-25 year olds who have been in the care of the Local Authority for a period of at least 13 weeks spanning their 16th birthday. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment and does not include students.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (unemployed 16 to 25 year old care leavers). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes targeting 16 to 25 year old care leavers. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (unemployed 16 to 25 year old care leavers).
(2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was a care leaver prior to employment with the organisation and is under 26 years.

NT76

Units
no. people FTE

Proxy
GBP 50,713

Unemployed people recruited

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of a
person who can be classified as 'unemployed'. Qualifying employees will have been unemployed for at least four weeks. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (unemployed). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes that will be used to employ unemployed people. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (unemployed). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was unemployed for at least four weeks prior to employment with the organisation.

NT5

Units
no. people FTE

Proxy
GBP 55,922

Unemployed ex-offenders aged 18 and over recruited

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of a person who is an unemployed ex-offender. Qualifying employees will be aged 18 and over. The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (unemployed ex-offenders aged 18 and over). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes targeting rehabilitating or ex-offenders aged 18 and over. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (unemployed ex-offenders aged 18 and over).
(2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person was a rehabilitating or
ex-offender prior to employment with the organisation.

NT6

Units
no. people FTE

Proxy
GBP 51,889

Unemployed individuals with disabilities recruited

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of a person who is unemployed and who has a disability A qualifying employee is "someone with a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ effect on their ability to do normal daily activities" (Equality Act, 2010). The Measure can only be used once per qualifying employee, for the first year of their employment.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant future employees (unemployed individuals with a disability). (2) Expected employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Any initiatives or recruitment programmes targeting disabled persons. (4) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of relevant employees (unemployed individuals with a disability). (2) Employment duration and type (full time or part time) per person. (3) Confirmation that each person had a disability at the time of employment with the organisation.

NT9

Units
no. weeks

Proxy
GBP 347

Accredited training for new employees

Definition
This Measure covers new employment with
accredited vocational training. Qualifying courses are at level 2 or higher such as: BTEC, City & Guilds, NVQ, HNC, RQF or
T-levels. Courses must be completed by the employee and supported by the organisation until qualification is attained. This Measure can only be used to record training opportunities for new employees, not existing employees.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of people on relevant vocational training courses. (2) Expected number of weeks spent on each course per person. (3) Qualification level for each course.
(4) Name of accredited training provider(s) if available.

Evidence required

(1) Anonymised list of people on relevant accredited vocational training courses. (2) Number of weeks spent on each course per person. (3) Qualification level for each course.

(4) Information on the accredited training provider(s).

Unit guidance
Training Weeks; No. weeks of training per person. A week has to include at least 3 training days per week; weeks with fewer training days can only be counted pro rata (total course days divided by 5).

NT9a

Units
no. weeks

Proxy
GBP 347

Accredited training for new employees from designated groups

Definition
This Measure covers new employment of an individual from a designated group with accredited vocational training. Designated groups can include persons who are NEET, under-represented gender and ethnic groups, persons with disabilities, homeless individuals, rehabilitating young offenders, etc. Qualifying courses are at level 2 or higher such as: BTEC, City & Guilds, NVQ, HNC, RQF or
T-levels. Courses must be completed by the employee and supported by the organisation until qualification is attained. This Measure can only be used to record training opportunities for new employees, not existing employees.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of people on relevant accredited vocational training courses with the designated group identified for each individual.
(2) Number of weeks spent on each course per person. (3) Qualification level for each course. (4) Information on the accredited training provider(s).

NT10

Units
no. weeks

Proxy
GBP 309.73

Employment of new apprentices

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of new
apprentices at level 2 or higher. Qualifying apprenticeships must follow an established path of progression to ensure timely completion and should be supported by the organisation until complete. This Measure can only be used to record opportunities for new employees and not upskilling for existing employees.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant people (apprentices) to be employed. (2) Expected relevant working time (weeks spent on apprenticeship) per person. (3) Expected qualification level for each apprentice. (4) Name of accredited training provider for each apprentice if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of relevant people (apprentices) employed. (2) Relevant working time (weeks spent on apprenticeship) per person. (3) Qualification level for each apprentice. (4) Information on the accredited training provider for each apprentice.

Unit guidance
Employment Weeks; No. weeks of apprenticeship training per person.

NT10a

Units
no. weeks

Proxy
GBP 309.73

Employment of new apprentices from designated groups

Definition
This Measure covers the employment of new apprentices from designated groups at level 2 or higher. Designated groups can include persons who are NEET, under-represented gender and ethnic groups, persons with disabilities, homeless individuals, rehabilitating young offenders, etc. Qualifying apprenticeships must follow an established path of progression to ensure timely completion and should be supported by the organisation until complete. This Measure can only be used to record opportunities for new employees and not upskilling for existing employees.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of relevant people to be employed (apprentices from designated groups) with the designated group to be identified for each individual. (2) Expected relevant working time (weeks spent on apprenticeship) per person. (3) Expected qualification level for each apprentice. (4) Summary of strategy for engaging with individuals from designated groups. (5) Name of accredited training provider for each apprentice if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of relevant people employed (apprentices from designated groups) with the designated group identified for each individual. (2) Relevant working time (weeks spent on apprenticeship) per person.
(3) Qualification level for each apprentice. (4) Information on the accredited training provider for each apprentice.

Unit guidance
Employment Weeks; No. weeks of apprenticeship training per person.

NT11

Units
no. hrs (total session duration) *no. attendees

Proxy
GBP 110.99

Personalised support to help unemployed people into work

Definition
This Measure covers the provision of expert-led personalised support to help
unemployed people gain work (not including students). Examples include career mentoring, mock interviews, CV advice, careers guidance, etc. Group sessions must be of a small enough size to allow recipients to receive personalised support based on their individual and specific needs. Training can be delivered online or in person. An employee's hours can only be recorded if they have been allocated time during paid working hours or time off in lieu.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of sessions, number of people receiving training and session duration.
(2) Description of relevant activity/activities to be delivered, including confirmation that content will be personalised to individual needs. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Number of sessions, number of people receiving training, and duration of sessions and dates. (2) Description of relevant activity/activities delivered, including confirmation that content was personalised to individual needs. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.

Unit guidance
Attendee Hours; No. attendees * Session duration (in hours).

NT12

Units
no. weeks

Proxy
GBP 96.53

Meaningful unpaid work placements while Not in Employment Education or Training

Definition
This Measure covers the provision of unpaid, short-term placements or pre-employment courses that make a meaningful contribution to enabling young people not in employment education or training (NEET) to find gainful employment. The placement must not last more than 8 consecutive weeks (or more than 40 days within a 3-month period) but at least 1 week. The Measure can only be used once per person within a 12-month period.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of participants and weeks of work placements or pre-employment courses per person. (2) Description of each proposed work placement or pre-employment course. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of participants supported with unpaid work placements or
pre-employment courses. (2) Duration in weeks of each work placement or
pre-employment course. (3) Description of each work placement or pre-employment course.

Unit guidance
No. weeks on placement per person. Working days can be counted pro rata (total working days divided by 5) but a week has to include at least 3 working days per week.

NT13

Units
no. weeks

Proxy
GBP 412.38

Meaningful paid work placements

Definition
This Measure covers the provision of paid
work placements that make a meaningful contribution to enabling young people to find gainful employment. The placement can last between 2 weeks and 6 months. The Measure can only be used once per person, within a 12-month period. Examples of meaningful work placements include work on junior-level tasks providing industry experience and insight.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of participants and weeks of paid work placements per person. (2) Description of each proposed paid work placement. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Anonymised list of participants supported with paid work placements. (2) Duration in weeks of each paid work placement. (3) Description of each work placement.

Unit guidance
No. weeks on placement per person. Working days can be counted pro rata (total working days divided by 5) but a week has to include at least 3 working days per week.

NT8

Units
no. staff volunteering hours

Proxy
GBP 17.48

Support for students at local educational institutions

Definition
This Measure covers staff volunteering with pupils and students of local educational institutions. Qualifying activities include corporate presentations, preparing and delivering career talks, curriculum support, literacy support, and specific industry talks. They can take place virtually as well as onsite. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. An employee's volunteering hours can only be recorded if they have been allocated time during paid working hours or time off in lieu.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of staff hours. (2) Description of the types of curriculum support activities to be delivered. (3) Names of proposed educational establishments if known.

Evidence required
(1) Breakdown of hours spent by staff volunteering. (2) Dates, locations and the types of relevant initiatives. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.

Unit guidance
Volunteering Hours; No. volunteering hours per employee per event.

NT50

Units
£ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc

Proxy
GBP 1

Initiatives to promote local skills and employment

Definition
This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives to increase skills and employment opportunities for local people and create sustainable employment opportunities in response to need, co-designed and
co-produced with the community, through pioneering programmes that are scalable. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. Innovative approaches and interventions not covered by other measures can be recorded here.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast resources to be invested. (2) Description of the types of initiatives planned, highlighting where there is innovation. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Description of how, where, and the types of activities/investments delivered along with expected impact highlighting where there is innovation. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.

Unit guidance
Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).

NT14

Units
£

Proxy
GBP 0.12

Spend with VCSEs in the supply chain

Definition
This Measure covers spend with Voluntary,
Community and Social Enterprises (VCSE) suppliers. It does not include grants or donations. The qualifying spend must be with organisations within the supply chain that are classified as VCSEs.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast £ to be spent (not donations) with VCSEs in supply chain. (2) Types of goods/services, and estimated proportions, to be procured from each VCSE. (3) Names of proposed VCSEs if known.

Evidence required
(1) Breakdown of £ spent (not donations) with VCSEs in supply chain. (2) Types and quantities of goods/services procured from each VCSE. (3) Names of VCSEs.

Unit guidance
Total amount of £ spent with VCSEs in the supply chain.

NT18

Units
£

Proxy Localised by project

Spend with local companies in the supply chain

Definition
This Measure covers spend with local suppliers and reflects the economic and social benefits to the local community. It allows for adjustment by local area and industry. The Measure requires a definition of the local area.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast £ to be spent with suppliers in the defined local area. (2) Types of goods/services, and estimated proportions, to be procured. (3) Names of proposed suppliers if known.

Evidence required
(1) Breakdown of £ spent. (2) Goods/services procured. (3) Name, postcode and industry of suppliers in the defined local area.

Unit guidance
Total amount of £ spent with the supply chain within the defined local area.

NT19

Units
£

Proxy Localised by project

Spend with local SMEs in the supply chain

Definition
This Measure covers spend with local
suppliers which are Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and reflects the economic and social benefits to the local community. It allows for adjustment by local area and industry. The Measure requires a definition of the local area.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast £ to be spent with small or medium sized suppliers in the defined local area. (2) Types of goods/services, and estimated proportions, to be procured. (3) Names of proposed suppliers if known.

Evidence required
(1) Breakdown of £ spent. (2) Goods/services procured. (3) Name, postcode, industry and company size (small or medium) of suppliers in the defined local area.

Unit guidance
Total amount of £ spent with SMEs in the supply chain within the defined local area.

NT15

Units
no. staff expert hours

Proxy
GBP 106.34

Expert support to VCSEs and SMEs

Definition
This Measure covers employees providing their expertise to Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprises (VCSEs) or Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Qualifying activities include a range of expert-led sessions offering specialist business advice that builds the capacity of VCSEs and SMEs. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. An employee's expert hours can only be recorded if they have been allocated time during paid working hours or time off in lieu.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of employee hours and their relevant qualification/role. (2) Description of the expert support to be provided. (3) Names of organisations to benefit from the advice if known.

Evidence required
(1) Breakdown of employee hours and their relevant qualification/role. (2) Description of the expert support provided. (3) Identity of organisations benefiting from the advice. (4) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.

Unit guidance
Expert Hours; No. expert hours per employee per event.

NT61

Units
%

Proxy
GBP 0

Invoices paid within 30 days

Definition
This Measure covers the proportion of invoices that are paid within 30 days.

Target requirements

(1) Confirmation of maximum 30 day payment policy. (2) Proposal for implementation.

Evidence required
(1) Confirmation of maximum 30 day payment policy. (2) Documentation evidencing implementation, including recent payment data.

Unit guidance
30-day invoice payment rate; No. invoices paid within 30 days in the period / Total no. invoices due in the period.

NT51

Units
£ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc

Proxy
GBP 1

Initiatives to promote and support responsible business

Definition
This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives to promote and facilitate responsible and ethical business practices in other organisations. These can be in collaboration with the local business community, and through pioneering programmes that are scalable. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting

Evidence required
(1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Description of how, where, and the types of activities/investments delivered along with

Unit guidance
Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).

NT27

Units
£ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc

Proxy
GBP 1

Support for initiatives focused on strengthening community networks

Definition
This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives aimed at the most vulnerable in society. These include elderly social clubs, digital skills training sessions, fitness programmes for persons with disabilities, etc., and can be run in partnership with a VCSE or as part of a company programme. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. Each of the types of support offered should be recorded separately.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast resources to be invested. (2) Description of the types of initiatives planned.
(3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Dates, locations and types of initiatives. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.

Unit guidance
Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).

NT28

Units
£ invested

Proxy
GBP 1

Support for local community projects through donations

Definition
This Measure covers financial and in-kind contributions to a range of initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and wellbeing of a community. These include financial and in-kind contributions to community projects and can be run in partnership with a VCSE or as part of a company programme. Each of the types of support offered should be recorded separately in the appropriate categories.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast resources to be invested. (2) Description of the types of initiatives planned.
(3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Details and breakdown of resources invested for relevant initiatives. (2) Dates, locations and types of initiatives. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.

Unit guidance
Total £ invested; Including cash, equipment, and use of assets (e.g., space).

NT29

Units
no. staff volunteering hours

Proxy
GBP 17.48

Support for local community projects through volunteering

Definition
This Measure covers staff volunteering on local community projects. Qualifying activities include a range of initiatives geared at improving community wellbeing. These can be run in partnership with a VCSE or as part of a company programme based on local need.
Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. An employee's volunteering hours can only be recorded if they have been allocated time during paid working hours or time off in lieu.

Target requirements
(1) Forecast number of staff hours. (2) Description of the types of local community activities to be delivered. (3) Names of any proposed partner organisations if known.

Evidence required
(1) Breakdown of hours spent by staff volunteering. (2) Dates, locations and the types of relevant initiatives. (3) Names of partner organisations where appropriate.

Unit guidance
Volunteering Hours; No. volunteering hours per employee per event.

NT52

Units
£ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc

Proxy

GBP 1

Initiatives to promote more resilient communities

Definition
This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives to promote the resilience of communities through the education, support, and development of health and wellbeing practices and community safety programmes in collaboration with the local community,

Unit guidance
Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).

NT53

Units
£ invested inc. time, materials, equipment etc

Proxy
GBP 1

Initiatives to safeguard the environment

Definition
This Measure covers support for a range of initiatives to address the climate emergency and safeguard the environment in response to local conditions, in collaboration with the local community, through pioneering programmes that are scalable. Recorded hours of staff time can only include time spent preparing and conducting the activities. Innovative approaches and interventions not covered by other measures can be recorded here.

Unit guidance
Total resources invested; Including cash, equipment, use of assets (e.g., space) and employee time (valued at the prevailing volunteering or expert hours rate).

Social value strategy 2026-28

Content

Strategy foreword

Where are we now?

Summary

Social value diagnostic summary of strengths and challenges.

Key areas of strength

Key areas of challenge

The social value opportunity

Why do we need to act

The strategy

Strategy implementation

1. Lancashire TOMs

2. Social value policy

Purpose

Scope

Audience

Contents

3. Social value websites

Engaging content online

4. Lancashire TOMs mapping

Coordinated activity

5. Social value annual statement

Communicate progress

6. Social value governance

7. Resource bank and training programme

Transfer of knowledge

Education programme

Resource bank

8. Social value evolution

9. Standardised approach

10. Social Value templates

11. Consistent evaluation and marking

Quantitative score: the what

Qualitative score: the how

12. Local needs platform

13. Category plan guidance

14. Early market engagement

15. Social value forums

Concept

Content

16. Greater Lancashire approach

17. Qualitative delivery plan

18. Social value reporting

19. Case studies

Contact

Appendix 1 Lancashire TOM's Guidance