PPN 002: Social value in public procurement

From 1 October 2025, central government departments must apply a minimum 10% weighting for social value when awarding contracts, under PPN 002. For the full government info, click here:
2025-02-11 PPN 002 The social value model (2) (PDF)

This puts social value at the heart of procurement decisions, driving better outcomes such environmental sustainability, fair work, and economic growth.

Social value in BRAVO

At Network Rail, we’ve aligned BRAVO’s Social Value questions with PPN 002. When creating your ITT, simply select the relevant PPN-aligned question to ensure compliance and support meaningful social outcomes.

What’s new in PPN 002, compared to the previous PPN 006?

Mandatory social value model – PPN 002 presents a ready-to-use framework with approved outcomes, award criteria, and metrics.

Aligned with legislation – PPN 002 supports the Procurement Act 2023 and Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012.

Government missions focus – PPN 002 helps to deliver on national priorities like clean energy and inclusive growth.

How it works

Select outcomes – choose the relevant social value goals based on the contract.

Apply criteria – insert model award criteria and metrics into the tender.

Supplier response – bidders explain how they’ll deliver the outcomes.

Qualitative assessment – responses are scored using the model’s sub-criteria.

Who does this apply to?

Central government departments, executive agencies, and non-departmental public bodies.

Who doesn’t this apply to?

Private utilities and Ministry of Defence contracts for defence/security.

For further information, get in touch:
RSC&PProcurementOperations@networkrail.co.uk