DISCLAIMER:

This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.

Simple terms explainer: 

When awarding large public contracts (generally worth £4 million or more), councils must consider adding community benefit clauses. These clauses aim to deliver extra social, economic, or environmental value - such as creating local jobs, offering training opportunities, or supporting small businesses. Councils also need to publish their policy on using community benefits and report regularly on how these commitments are being met. This ensures public spending brings wider benefits to local communities, not just the goods or services purchased.

Legal status

Statutory


Duty category

Corporate services


Duty type

Public impact


Social determinant of health

Economic stability

Emerging policy and legislation


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Bodies with shared interest

Scotland Excel
Audit Scotland
Accounts Commission
Improvement Service
Scottish Futures Trust
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Society of Local Authority Lawyers and Administrators in Scotland (SOLAR)

Standards and frameworks


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