In an era defined by fiscal constraints and evolving societal needs, the Social Value Act stands as a beacon of progress, urging public sector entities to transcend financial considerations and prioritise the holistic well-being of communities. This blog will explain how The Charity Shop Gift Card can be an instrumental player in generating social value.
Enacted in 2013, the Social Value Act mandates ‘all public sector organisations (and their suppliers) to look beyond the financial cost of a contract and consider how the services they commission and produce might improve the economic, social and environmental well-being of an area’. This legislation acknowledges the pivotal role that procurement decisions play in shaping the fabric of society, inspiring a collective commitment to maximising social value. With community, environment, and the economy being the three main pillars of The Charity Shop Gift Card’s initiative – we really are a gift card for good, that supports a myriad of groups.
In short, below details how The Charity Shop Gift Card embodies the ethos of social value entirely:
- Environment: not only does shopping with The Charity Shop Gift Card promote shopping second-hand, reducing the need for mass-produced garments and households items, but our gift card itself is compostable, and made from recycle board.
- Economy: in addition to helping reduce the landfill tax councils are set, The Charity Shop Gift Card supports the local economy by bolstering local employment and contributing to high-street foot-fall. Moreover, The Charity Shop Gift Card allows for funds to stay within the charity sector – meaning regional hospice charities etc, secure vital funds for their service
- Community: alongside improving the physical and mental health of service. users, charity shops serve as community hubs and a gateway for wider community services via signposting and partnerships with local institutions which is a vital source of interaction for vulnerable members of society.
The Charity Shop Gift Card embodies the ethos of social value – empowering individuals to support local economies, access essential goods sustainably, and foster community connections. Available directly from us, fulfilment organisations, and through the CCS Framework, our gift cards channel support towards regional charities and services, all whilst stretching funds further, and promoting a circular economy. We proudly work alongside a plethora of incredible organisations – most notably the Charity Retail Association, Clothing Collective, and Charis, to provide the most diverse and beneficial experience possible.
In times of economic uncertainty, the need for social value becomes increasingly pronounced. Sporting a low administrative burden, The Charity Shop Gift Card provides a simple way for local councils and support agencies to help provide access to affordable clothing, furniture, and household essentials. In essence, The Charity Shop Gift Card stands as a potent vehicle for generating social value – enriching communities, and fostering resilience in the face of adversity along the way. By embracing the principles of the Social Value Act and harnessing the potential of The Charity Shop Gift Cards, local councils can cultivate inclusive communities where every individual can thrive.