Corporate And Charity Partnerships: The Worth of Social Value

Social value has become an important concern for many businesses in the modern day. Why?

One aspect to this is governance.

On the 31st January 2013, the UK Government brought into effect The Public Services (Social Value) Act. According to the government's webpage, the Act `requires people who commission public services to think about how they can also secure wider social, economic and environmental benefits.'

Another factor to social values’ prominence is the global conversations around topics such as climate change and poverty reduction. Worldwide, news outlets give space to these topics. Which means it's at the forefront of the public consciousness. And now, consumers' purchasing decisions are often influenced by how much a company prioritises social value.

These reasons have driven many companies to prioritise social value as part of their philosophy and identity. The ways that businesses action this varies. For example, setting environmental targets, or offering support to charities.

One way that corporations can help non-profits is via fundraising and donations. Donations of supplies also help, and ease the pressure on non-profits’ budgets.

Working volunteering hours at charities is another way to help. Non-profits are often stretched for time and resources, so this can be very valuable to them.

By definition, a partnership is mutually beneficial. Corporations also have access to a host of benefits by partnering with a charity.

As defined by the NHS’ `5 Steps to Wellbeing’, giving is a key step to healthy wellbeing:

`By being giving research suggests that acts of giving and kindness can help improve your mental wellbeing by creating positive feelings and a sense of reward, giving you a feeling of purpose and self-worth, helping you connect with other people.’

Companies donating resources or volunteer hours helps to boost the morale of their teams. Offering volunteer hours allows employees to work in a different environment and meet new people. With this comes a renewed perspective outside of their usual work life. This post has referenced the prominence of social value in today's climate. So there would also be the benefit of positive publicity. Working with charities can boost the image of companies in the eyes of consumers.

Age UK Manchester have benefitted immensely from corporate partnerships. For example, Sky are helping to clear up the garden at one of our day centres, making it beautiful for our service users. In the past, we have also had another company provide IT training for our service users. These partnerships brought people together and fostered a positive collaboration. 

Age UK Manchester are always looking to partner up with companies. Particularly those who share our values of. Whether it’s volunteering, or equipment that you can offer to us we would love to hear from you. In return, you’ll build connections with a strong community, and make a real impact on older people’s lives.

If you want to forge a partnership, please send us a message on here, or e-mail richy.campbell@ageukmanchester.org.uk.