We are delighted to announce that we have been awarded with the Social Value Quality Mark Level 1. The Quality Mark recognises distinction in values-led business that benefits customers, communities and the planet. It is one of the most rigorously tested standards of its kind in the UK.
Central Government now requires all businesses to demonstrate how they will deliver social value as a criterion for winning public sector work, with a minimum 10% of the score allocated to this question. The Social Value Quality Mark provides independent verification and measurement of a company’s investment in society.
To gain the Quality Mark, we have committed to generating positive value for society through all of our operations. The awarding panel were impressed by initiatives such as our fundraiser for Women’s Aid, our chosen charity partner for 2021, during which £950 was raised in a single day in March. The funds were used to help set up 95 live chat lines, providing a lifeline to women at risk of domestic abuse.
We have also launched our pilot Careers Support Service to help those who have lost their job, or are at risk of job loss, as a result of Covid-19.
“Customers from all sectors increasingly make purchasing decisions based on how companies treat their staff, the environment and the communities in which they operate. Methods has shown industry leadership in supporting post-Covid recovery through skilled volunteering and its core activities as a digital consultancy.
This award recognises the team’s outstanding commitment to create, report and embed social value within the fabric of their organisation. We are delighted to remain their social value partner as they move through up through the levels”
Richard Dickins, MD of Social Value Quality Mark
“I am delighted that Methods has achieved the Social Value Quality Mark Level 1. Quite simply, we use modern technology to improve public services, and so this recognition of the social value of our work means a lot for all of us at a very personal level. This is just the start of our journey; we look forward to working with Social Value Quality Mark to further amplify our social value.”
Prof Mark Thompson, Strategy Director, Methods Business and Digital Technology Ltd
We will now strive to gain the next level over a series of months and have announced six pledges upon which this will be assessed, including continued support for Women’s Aid. We hope to generate Social Return on Investment of more than £180,000 through corporate giving, staff fundraising and volunteering hours for the charity.
We have also set targets for 2021-22 to create 10 apprenticeships, 2 kickstart roles and to increase the amount spent with SMEs and social enterprises within our supply chain.
To find out more about our pledges and how we are making a difference in society, please visit here.
