Changes to the Government's Social Value Model
05 October 2026

In August the Cabinet Office announced changes to the Social Value Model used in Government procurement.

More information is available here

The key message for the research sector is that the revised model will not apply to the current Research & Insights DPS (RM6126) which is the main vehicle for Government research procurement. Existing arrangements will remain in place until the framework expires in February 2029, giving suppliers and buyers continuity under the current rules.

MRS has submitted more than 80 questions to the Government Commercial Agency (GCA) about how the new model will operate in practice. We are continuing discussions with the GCA and will keep members updated as further guidance becomes available and plans for future research procurement arrangements develop.