Social Value

This podcast episode explores the concept of social value in the context of corporate responsibility and sustainability, with insights from Victoria Hartley, a sustainability professional. Victoria outlines how social value has evolved from early philanthropic efforts by industrialists (such as providing housing and education for workers) into a more strategic and measurable part of modern business practice. Today, social value encompasses a business’s broader responsibility across its entire value chain, including supplier communities and environmental impact. It’s no longer seen as a “fluffy” add-on, but as a vital component of a company’s strategy. The episode also touches on challenges, such as transitioning from ad hoc donations to structured strategies, and stresses the importance of aligning social efforts with employee and stakeholder expectations.