Columnist

Purposeful procurement for long-term growth

Procurement in the North East can do far more than buy goods and services for the right price.

Used strategically, it can help unlock inclusive and sustainable growth, create quality jobs and ensure the benefits of investment are felt across every part of the region.

Working with Chamber members, we are currently pulling together a framework for a social value procurement report, which will support this ambition of turning public spending into a key lever for regional renewal.

It will be a best practice guide.

The report aligns with the Chamber’s current policy plan Unlocking the North East Economy and the priorities set out within it around securing quality jobs, driving inclusive growth, creating the conditions for a healthier, happier and more productive North East and supporting good employers to thrive.

At its core, the report is about positive impact not compliance.

It is about long-term outcomes including fair pay, progression and security at work; stronger local supply chains; better access to apprenticeships, training and employment and deeper engagement with communities.

Procurement with social value embedded then becomes part of our region’s wider effort to boost productivity, close the employment gap and create opportunity for all generations.

The framework also reflects the Chamber’s emphasis on place-based solutions.

The North East is a connected ecosystem, and what works here must reflect local need, culture, local relationships and the realities of urban, rural, coastal and inland communities.

A more consistent regional approach would give suppliers clarity, reduce fragmentation and help public sector organisations work with SMEs, voluntary, community and social enterprises and communities more effectively.

Importantly, the framework builds on strong existing foundations.

Regional initiatives such as the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority’s SHINE accreditation, Tees Valley Combined Authority’s Move Forward programme and South Tyneside’s Pledge already show what good looks like on the ground.

The opportunity now is to scale and roll out best practice, strengthen accountability and embed social value consistently across procurement systems

Done well, the result will be smarter and better value public spending, stronger businesses, healthier communities and a system that supports the North East’s ambition to become one of the best places to live, work and do business.

Chris Kelsey is public affairs manager at the North East Chamber of Commerce

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