The Northern Ireland Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 01/21 – Social Value in Procurement explains how government contracts should include social benefits alongside cost and quality when choosing suppliers. It applies to government departments, public bodies and other public sector organisations in Northern Ireland. The policy requires that large contracts (over £500,000 for services and above the UK threshold for construction) must consider social impact in their decision-making. It encourages support for small businesses, fair working conditions, ethical supply chains, environmental responsibility and community benefits. The document also gives guidance on how to evaluate social value in contracts, manage suppliers, and track progress.
