Looking at the Social Value we’ve generated in the South West

Did you know we ask our suppliers to "give something back" by way of a social value return? It’s how we use our buying power to generate additional support for our customers and communities.  

In total for the last year, we’ve generated the equivalent of more than £10.5 million worth of social value.

How did we do this?

So, when we buy things, we make sure that organisation commits to giving back to our communities through social value, either through a monetary donation or in kind. This can be materials, funding, equipment, employment opportunities or volunteering hours.

In Ilchester, the community wanted to turn an empty patch of land into something more colourful and eco-friendly. Working with our Grounds Maintenance team, we created a new wildflower garden with butterfly-friendly plants, bug hotels, a bat box and even a hedgehog house. It’s now a lovely eco-garden that everyone can enjoy from their homes all year round.

Over at Castleman House, we responded to your requests for better garden access by replacing old wooden planters with new brick-raised beds, paid for through our Social Value Fund. These beds are long-lasting, easier to access and give residents more opportunities to plant veggies, relax and enjoy the fresh air.

At Brue Avenue & Eastfields Independent Living Scheme, the community asked for better access to their communal garden space, we listened.

Thanks to funding from our Social Value Fund, a new level-access patio has now been installed right outside the communal hall, making it easier for everyone to get involved in outdoor events, gardening, and simply enjoying a cuppa in the sun.

This project is a great example of how we’re putting your ideas into action. By creating accessible, sociable outdoor spaces, we’re helping build stronger connections and support happier, healthier lives.

Here’s what residents told us:

• “It’s so important to have a flat area everyone can access. This makes it easier to come together.”
• “We love playing boules outside and being near the hall means more people can join in.”
• “We’re really looking forward to planting climbing flowers in the new trellis planters!”

An open event with cream teas is planned later this month to celebrate the new space — we hope to see you there!

This is the final year of our 2020-2025 Strategy and a full report covering the lifetime of the strategy will be available late 2025.