MindWise at the Social Enterprise NI Annual Social Value Conference 2025

Fri, 14 - March - 2025

Social value is becoming an increasingly important factor in tenders and contracts, with organisations expected to demonstrate how they contribute positively to society beyond their core services. At MindWise, we recognise the vital role we play in supporting mental health and wellbeing, not only for those who use our services but also for our employees, partners, and the wider community.

On 13 March 2025, MindWise attended the Social Enterprise NI Annual Social Value Conference, reinforcing our commitment to social value and collaboration. The key message of the day was clear: all sectors must collaborate to leverage their skills and expertise for the betterment of the Northern Irish economy. The growing social economy demonstrates that profit with purpose is essential for sustainable progress.

During the event, we heard from award-winning social enterprises, including:

• The Workspace Group – supporting the Draperstown community by partnering with local businesses and schools to create opportunities for a prosperous and dynamic community.
• ACT (Accelerating Change Together) – working towards a green transition by implementing sustainable development initiatives that inspire change.

Additionally, the 2025 Department for Economy Sector Survey was highlighted as a crucial tool for supporting the sector. Attendees were encouraged to participate to ensure their voices are heard at a critical time, helping to benchmark progress, drive practical solutions, and shape future policy.

The conference also explored the Procurement Act 2023 and the opportunities it presents for social enterprises. A significant shift is taking place: social value now accounts for 10% of contract evaluation and is mandatory. Social value is not just one element—it encompasses secure employment, skills development, resilient supply chains, wellbeing promotion, and climate action.

Key Insights from Heidi Fisher MBE

The headline speaker, Heidi Fisher MBE (Make an Impact CIC), delivered an inspiring address on embedding social value into organisational DNA. She emphasised that collaboration is at the heart of creating stronger social value, as working together leads to greater impact. Delivering social value, she explained, is not a final destination but an ongoing journey that should be deeply embedded into an organisation’s decision-making and actions. Measuring what truly matters is key to making social impact sustainable and long-lasting. Social value, she argued, should never be reduced to just a line in a tender—it must be seen as a legacy. Her call to action was clear: organisations must plant the seeds today for a better tomorrow.

How MindWise is Taking Action

At MindWise, we actively measure our impact and have begun embedding social value by working in partnership and leading social value training. To further strengthen our commitment and align with the new procurement framework, we have developed a formal process to track and measure our impact. This structured approach helps us clearly demonstrate the difference we make and strengthen our position when bidding for contracts.

By embedding social value into our operations, we not only meet tender requirements but also reinforce our role as a leading voice in mental health advocacy. The Procurement Act 2023 presents new opportunities for us to expand our reach, secure funding, and deliver even greater impact for the communities we serve.

MindWise remains committed to partnerships, collaboration, and creating a lasting social impact. As we move forward, we will continue to integrate social value into everything we do, ensuring that our work makes a meaningful difference in Northern Ireland.

Stay tuned for further updates as we develop our approach and ensure MindWise continues to make a meaningful difference.

To find out more about Social Value, Social Value and MindWise: Enhancing Community Wellb... . To learn more about the Procurement Act 2023 and how to prepare for the changes, Procurement Act 2023 - Guidance documents - GOV.UK