We apply a sustainable procurement lens to the way we source goods and services. This means purchasing and sourcing goods and services in a way that benefits not only us, but society as a whole, all while minimising the impact on the environment.

We aim to take a consistent approach to identifying the environmental, social, and economic impacts of good and services we procure, in accordance with ISO 20400. We also share the benefits of our experience with suppliers, helping them reduce their own impact.

Social value is about using every aspect of our business and operations to make a positive difference to the communities we work in. Having a diverse supply base helps us generate local social value by supporting employment, local economic spend and opportunities for participation in WSP’s local, regional and national business.

In 2021 we established a Supply Chain Social Value Charter, reflecting our Social Value Policy objectives and our commitment to delivering social value in partnership with our suppliers. This works both ways, and we continue to look for opportunities to use our resources and expertise to support suppliers delivering social value through activities such mentorship.

We know that to create an inclusive and diverse culture where everyone can thrive, we must not only embed this approach in our own business but also develop and support a diverse supply chain.

Our diverse supply chain allows us to collaborate with and support the growth of diverse suppliers, following a roadmap that adheres to the goals set out in the Government’s Social Value Model. This roadmap consists of guidelines and policies, internal and external communications to raise awareness, creating additional business opportunities for diverse suppliers, a development programme to support suppliers and a means to track and measure our progress on Supplier Diversity.

We are active corporate members of MSDUK and WEConnect International. MSDUK helps global corporations to build diverse supply chains by connecting them with certified Ethnic Minority Businesses (EMBs) within the UK. WEConnect International is a global network that connects corporate buyers to women-owned businesses globally.