Valuing what matters: Reclaiming social value for system change
Think tank: City-REDI
Author(s): Mark Swift
November 13, 2025
This report from UK think tank City-REDI argues that social value must be reclaimed as a driver of system change.
This policy brief argues that social value must be reclaimed as a driver of system change rather than reduced to compliance exercises.
It outlines a stewardship approach across three dimensions – procurement, governance, and community voice – demonstrating how public spending can serve as anchor investment, align decision-making around a shared purpose, and empower citizens as equal partners in shaping priorities.
By reframing social value as system stewardship, the brief outlines how institutions can reduce inequalities and renew trust with communities.
