Delivering social value for our clients and society

Setting the scene

We help solve the most pressing problems for our clients and society. Creating and protecting value, now and for the future.  

In addition to the value generated through our core client work and our long-standing Community Engagement programmes, we invite our people to propose social value projects – initiatives and programmes to generate social, economic, and environmental benefits. 

This year we’re showcasing our work with public sector procurement professionals and the workforce of the future. 

Enhancing public sector professionals’ skills

We funded a year-long project to offer more structured learning and networking opportunities to junior to mid-senior public sector commercial and procurement professionals, recognising that people from lower socio-economic backgrounds and people with disabilities are particularly represented in these roles. 

Five months in, the project team – made up of people from our Belfast, London, Manchester and Newcastle Consulting teams - have brought together and enrolled more than 60 professionals in a community of practice. Through hybrid workshops that focus on relevant procurement and commercial topics, such as how to procure AI, we’ve established a space to upskill and make connections. 

We’re proud of the positive feedback from participants, which reinforces our role as a trusted partner in delivering positive change.

Employability skills and financial literacy

Empowering the next generation by enhancing employability skills and financial literacy is at the heart of two projects delivered this year. Our Economic Inactivity report shows that nine in 10 UK employers are concerned about those not in employment, with evidence highlighting the importance of early intervention in getting young people career ready. 

Addressing this need in Scotland, a team partnered with Scottish social enterprise Powering Futures which helps equip 16–25-year-olds with qualifications, skills, and the confidence to thrive when transitioning into work.  Our people have joined over 20 events across Scotland. They’ve engaged in teacher training, shared their career journeys and offered practical advice, as well as taking part in school challenge judging panels to support young people as they look to navigate the jobs market of the future.

Now in its second year, we also expanded our financial literacy programme for young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Our ‘Money Making Sense’ curriculum is designed to enhance students’ understanding of personal finances, including new technology such as saving and budgeting apps, and reduce the risk of financial insecurity. 

Calling on expertise from around the firm - from social mobility specialists to pensions colleagues – to date the programme has benefitted over 390 children aged 11 and above.