Social value initiative in Scotland aims to deliver inclusive economic growth
Balfour Beatty has signed the Buy Social Pledge, a new initiative that allows businesses to make a social and environmental impact through their purchasing power.
The Buy Social Pledge, run by Social Enterprise Scotland, brings together corporate businesses, SMEs, academic institutions, and public sector bodies.
Organisations that sign the pledge commit to bringing social enterprises into their supply chains and fostering inclusive economic growth.
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This commitment involves five key actions:
- Recognise fair work for all – Champion fair work principles, prioritise 'real living wages', narrow the gender pay gap, foster equality, diversity and inclusion, and eradicate zero-hour contracts
- Environmental impact for a sustainable tomorrow – Embrace a net zero policy
- Support social enterprises – Onboard and promote social enterprises within their supply chains, helping to foster an ecosystem that nurtures and supports these organisations
- Prompt payment, ethical business – Commit to prompt payment, resulting in ethical business relationships
- Measure positive impact – Commit to transparency and accountability by reporting annual spend with social enterprises
Bethany Welsh, social impact advisor at Balfour Beatty said: “We are thrilled to join the Buy Social Pledge, reinforcing our commitment to fostering social and environmental progress through our procurement practices.
“By continuing to integrate social enterprises into our supply chain, we aim to drive inclusive economic growth and create lasting positive impacts within the communities we serve across Scotland.”
Delivering social impact
The Buy Social Pledge was launched in November 2023 as part of the national Buy Social Scotland campaign, delivered by Social Enterprise Scotland with support from the Scottish government, aimed at making it easier for businesses, SMEs, and public sector organisations to engage with a range of social enterprise suppliers.
Chris Martin, CEO at Social Enterprise Scotland, said: “By joining the Buy Social Pledge, businesses can use their spend to create substantial social and environmental benefits. We are excited to welcome Balfour Beatty as they join other pioneers in this initiative.
“Their commitment will not only drive positive changes within their supply chain but also inspire other organisations to contribute towards building a more inclusive, green and sustainable economy in Scotland.”
