Metro Dynamics Social Value Policy

Metro Dynamics is an employee-owned consultancy committed to helping places become more prosperous, inclusive and sustainable. We believe that the work we undertake should create lasting positive outcomes not only for our clients but also for communities, local economies, the environment and future generations.

As a values and mission driven organisation, social value is embedded throughout our business operations and delivery model. We seek to generate measurable social, economic and environmental benefits through the projects we deliver, the way we operate as an employer, and our contribution to the communities in which we work.

This policy sets out Metro Dynamics' commitment to creating positive social value and provides a framework for the activities we undertake across our business.

Our Principles

Metro Dynamics will:

  • Create positive economic, social and environmental outcomes through our work.

  • Support inclusive growth and improved opportunities for people and places.

  • Operate as a responsible employer and promote good work.

  • Minimise our environmental impact and contribute to the transition to a net zero economy.

  • Invest in the skills, wellbeing and development of our employees.

  • Support charities, community organisations and educational institutions.

Our Social Value Commitments

1. Supporting Local Economies

We will:

  • Recruit locally wherever possible and support employment opportunities in the communities where we operate.

  • Use local suppliers, venues and services where practical and proportionate.

  • Contribute to local economic development through our consultancy work and wider business activities.

  • Support SMEs, social enterprises and voluntary organisations within our supply chain.

2. Skills, Education and Social Mobility

We recognise that improving access to skills and career opportunities is essential for inclusive growth.

We will:

  • Provide careers advice, mentoring, CV support and interview preparation for students, graduates and individuals seeking employment.

  • Deliver talks, workshops and guest lectures for schools, colleges and universities.

  • Offer work experience, internships, placement and apprenticeship opportunities where feasible.

  • Support initiatives that improve social mobility and widen participation in professional careers.

  • Share our expertise through webinars, publications and learning events.

3. Good Work and Employee Wellbeing

As an employee-owned business, we are committed to creating a positive and inclusive working environment.

We will:

  • Pay all employees at least the Real Living Wage.

  • Maintain our commitment to the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter and equivalent good work principles across all locations.

  • Promote equality, diversity and inclusion throughout recruitment, progression and leadership.

  • Provide flexible working arrangements where appropriate.

  • Support employee wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme and wider wellbeing initiatives.

  • Encourage employee participation and voice through our employee ownership model.

4. Supporting Communities

We believe our success should benefit the communities in which we work.

We will:

  • Encourage and support employee volunteering.

  • Provide pro bono support to organisations aligned with our mission and values.

  • Contribute financially, where appropriate, to community organisations and charitable initiatives.

  • Partner with local schools, community groups, charities and social enterprises.

  • Support projects that improve opportunities for disadvantaged or underrepresented groups.

5. Environmental Responsibility

We recognise the climate emergency and our responsibility to reduce environmental impacts.

We will:

  • Implement and maintain a Carbon Reduction Plan.

  • Work towards achieving net zero emissions in line with our corporate commitments.

  • Prioritise digital-first delivery where appropriate.

  • Encourage public transport, active travel and lower-carbon alternatives to business travel.

  • Reduce waste and promote sustainable procurement practices.

  • Consider environmental impacts in project design and delivery.

6. Ethical Business Practices

We will:

  • Act with integrity, transparency and professionalism.

  • Maintain high standards of governance and ethical conduct.

  • Promote fair treatment throughout our supply chain.

  • Comply with all relevant legislation relating to employment, equality, health and safety, modern slavery, data protection and environmental management.

  • Challenge discrimination and promote inclusive working practices.

Delivery and Monitoring

Responsibility for the implementation of this policy rests with the Directors and leadership team.

Metro Dynamics will:

  • Consider social value opportunities during bid development, project delivery and business planning.

  • Set social value commitments where relevant to client commissions.

  • Report significant achievements and outcomes through company reporting and client social value reporting requirements.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains aligned with Metro Dynamics' values, business objectives and evolving best practice in social value delivery.

Date of next review: January 2027