Council spends millions locally to support Rotherham businesses

Cash spent locally by Rotherham Council has almost tripled in the space of five years as it looks to support the town’s economy.

Figures show that in the 2019/20 financial year, the authority spent £44.8m locally, but five years later, the total was in excess of £122m over 12 months.

The Council’s Annual Social Value Report highlights the figures which is said to benefit the local econony, aiding the borough’s overall prospects.

The report, which will be discussed by members of the council’s ruling cabinet on Monday, September 14, also shows that social value commitments secured through council contracts now stands at £41.6 million.

Of this, £23.7 million has been delivered and validated - up 92 per cent on the previous annual report.

Social value means securing wider benefits for local people and communities when the council buys goods, works and services.

That may include creating jobs and apprenticeships, supporting local businesses, helping community organisations and reducing environmental impact.

Since the council introduced its Social Value Policy in 2019, contracts have helped to secure or retain 454 full-time equivalent jobs for local people and deliver 1,169 weeks of apprenticeships.

They have also provided 4,985 hours of personalised career mentoring and employment support, alongside 728 staff hours supporting local schools and colleges.

The council has also continued to work with partners through the Rotherham Together Partnership to improve how social value is planned, delivered and measured across the borough.

Leader of Rotherham Council, Chris Read said: “We want every pound the Council spends to deliver the greatest possible benefit for Rotherham.

“These figures show what that means in practice – creating jobs and apprenticeships, supporting local businesses, developing skills and helping community organisations.

“We have made strong progress, but there is more to do. Our priority now is to make sure every commitment delivers meaningful and lasting benefits for local people.

“Over the next year, we will strengthen how we monitor contracts and continue working with our partners to focus social value on the needs and priorities of Rotherham’s communities.”