We’re proud to announce that our social value officers, Karen Richards and Michael Wragg, have been shortlisted for the prestigious UK National GO Awards 2025, recognising their outstanding work in embedding social value across the borough.
They have been named a finalist in the Social Value Award – Government and Health category, with the winners to be announced at a ceremony on 21 May 2025 at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool.
A commitment to social value
Sandwell has a long history of championing social value. Since 2006, social value has been a part of the council’s planning and procurement processes, from supporting local employment through major developments to making sure council contracts deliver benefits for residents.
This commitment has grown over the years into a strategy that puts community outcomes at the centre of all work. Whether it’s ensuring new developments offer training and job opportunities or working with schools and community groups, Sandwell has consistently led the way.
The Four Pillars of Social Value
Karen and Michael have played a central role in evolving Sandwell’s social value approach. Working as part of our Business Growth Team, they helped develop the Council’s refreshed social value policy, which was endorsed in early 2024. This policy introduced the Four Pillars of Social Value, setting a clear framework for what social value means to Sandwell:
- Employment and skills
- Local economic benefit
- Community engagement
- Environmental responsibility
These pillars are now embedded in all major procurement, planning and regeneration activities, helping ensure a consistent and measurable approach.
Delivering Real Results
One of the best examples of this work in action is the partnership with Morgan Sindall on the West Bromwich Town Hall & Library project. To date, this project alone has generated over £5.5 million in social value. It has delivered:
- 19 work experience placements
- 11 new job starts
- 4 apprenticeships
- £4,125 raised for mental health charities
- Volunteering, school engagement and support for local causes
This is just one of many examples of how our Business Growth Team is delivering tangible benefits for Sandwell residents through meaningful partnerships.
Supporting Sandwell’s Business Community
Their work doesn’t stop at large scale developments. Karen and Michael also play a vital role in supporting local SMEs through events like Meet the Buyer, offering bid-writing workshops and helping businesses understand and deliver social value in their own operations.
Their nomination for this national award is a reflection of their hard work and dedication to social value.
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