Building on the Social Value Act 2012, this model requires suppliers to demonstrate how their work will contribute to broader social, economic, and environmental goals. This approach focuses on tackling economic inequality, combating climate change, and promoting equal opportunity, fundamentally changing how government contracts are awarded.
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has fully embraced these principles, embedding social value into its procurement processes. Now, defence suppliers are evaluated not only on traditional metrics such as quality, time, and cost, but also on the additional benefits their projects bring to communities and the environment. This approach encourages suppliers to deliver wider public value, aligning with the Government’s policy to prioritise British suppliers and integrate social value into every aspect of procurement.
Social Value in Action: HMS Ambuscade Repatriation
An exemplary initiative that embodies these principles is the Clyde Naval Heritage’s project to repatriate HMS Ambuscade, currently known as PNS Tariq, from Pakistan to the River Clyde.
This project offers a unique opportunity for defence firms in Scotland to demonstrate their commitment to social value, aligning with the MOD’s procurement criteria.
The repatriation of HMS Ambuscade will have a significant economic impact on the local community. The transformation of the decommissioned vessel into a floating museum will create jobs and stimulate tourism in the River Clyde area. This directly addresses the MOD’s objective of tackling economic inequality by fostering local economic growth and providing new employment opportunities. The project also emphasises sustainability. Repurposing the ship as a museum rather than scrapping it reduces waste and embodies sustainable practices. Additionally, the museum’s operational strategies will focus on minimising environmental impact, aligning with the MOD’s Net Zero by 2050 initiatives. Defence firms supporting this project can showcase their commitment to environmental responsibility, enhancing their reputation and fulfilling the MOD’s sustainability criteria.
Community Engagement
Supporting the HMS Ambuscade project demonstrates a tangible commitment to the local community. This project honours the rich shipbuilding heritage of the Clyde and pays tribute to those who served during the Falklands Conflict. By engaging with this initiative, defence firms can foster goodwill and strengthen their corporate reputation. This commitment to community engagement and heritage preservation resonates with the MOD’s focus on social value, enhancing the appeal of bids for government contracts.
In their own words: “The Clyde Naval Heritage project is an exciting initiative that aims to preserve the rich shipbuilding history of the River Clyde for future generations. Many commercial and naval warships have been built in the River Clyde Shipyards for both the Royal Navy and many countries around the world, not to mention some of the world’s most iconic transatlantic liners such as the Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth & QE2. Most of the shipyards are gone and little remains of that heritage.
Our project aims to address this by creating a Heritage Museum site focused on telling the story of the people and ships they built.
Visitors will embark on a journey through 250 years of naval and commercial shipbuilding history. Central to this story will be an Amazon class frigate type, HMS Ambuscade/PNS Tariq, donated to our charity by The Pakistan Government. This ship’s journey will be revealed through the eyes of the people who built her and served upon her both in the UK and in Pakistan. The Clyde Naval Heritage Village will expand upon this history through the Clyde Naval and Commercial Shipbuilding Collection, The Falklands Conflict and The Type 21 Fleet. Each collection will offer an insight into life as a shipyard worker and in the service.”
Businesses that sponsor the HMS Ambuscade’s return will enjoy unprecedented visibility. Their names will be associated with an international journey of historical significance, gaining exposure and prestige. Moreover, the repatriation journey provides a unique platform for hosting events, offering memorable experiences for clients and stakeholders.
Voices of Support
Prominent figures have voiced their support for the HMS Ambuscade project. Admiral Lord Alan West, former First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, emphasises the foundational significance of this project, urging support from naval and shipbuilding heritage enthusiasts.
By sponsoring the HMS Ambuscade’s return, defence firms can not only honour the rich shipbuilding heritage of the Clyde but also position themselves as leaders in generating social value. This strategic alignment with government objectives can enhance their bids for MOD contracts, ensuring that their contributions are recognised and rewarded.
For more information on how to contribute, visit Clyde Naval Heritage or contact the communications team via email at enquiries@clydenaval.org
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Lt Col Stuart Crawford is a defence analyst and former army officer. Sign up for his podcasts and newsletters at www.DefenceReview.uk
Lt Col Stuart Crawford’s latest book Tank Commander (Hardback) is available now
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