Cyd Innovation’s Vision for Social Value Management 

2025 marks a transformative chapter for Cyd Innovation as we deepen our commitment to a holistic, people-first approach to retrofit. While our core mission remains delivering high-quality retrofit services that accelerate the transition to net zero, we are equally focused on ensuring that this journey remains, and highlights inclusivity: empowering communities and residents to be active participants in shaping a more sustainable future. 

Investing in Impact 

Recognising the growing need for equitable and impactful solutions, Cyd Innovation has significantly expanded its investment in social value. This year, we welcomed two dedicated specialists to our team, focused exclusively on sustainability and social value. These new roles are pivotal: not only do they enhance the social and environmental outcomes of our retrofit projects, but they also enable us to offer social value management as a standalone service across the wider built environment sector. 

Our approach goes beyond meeting regulatory requirements. We are driven by a mission to maximise positive impact, helping organisations without in-house expertise to deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes. We show that it’s possible to achieve both resource efficiency and real-world results within the same service offering. 

Seizing the Moment for Change 

The introduction of the Procurement Act 2023 has redefined how public contracts are evaluated—shifting from the “Most Economically Advantageous Tender” (MEAT) to the “Most Advantageous Tender” (MAT). This change places greater emphasis on the broader social and environmental benefits that public spending can deliver. 

We see this as a powerful opportunity to embed lasting value into each project. But we also understand the challenges many organisations face in turning policy into practice, especially when it comes to embedding, delivering, and evidencing social value. 

That’s why we’re broadening our support beyond retrofit. Cyd innovation now look for lasting partnerships with organisations tasked with delivering public benefit, helping them design and implement initiatives that are locally relevant and community led. We work collaboratively with residents, local authorities, businesses, and NGOs to ensure that every intervention reflects the unique needs and aspirations of the communities it serves. 

From creating green jobs and tackling fuel poverty, to launching wellbeing programmes and training the next generation of sustainability leaders—our team is here to help unlock the full potential of every contract. 

Empowering The Cyd Family 

At Cyd, we believe in the power of giving back, in our daily work, but also through hands on support for local causes. We recognise the value of community engagement and as of this year we have introduced an unlimited volunteering policy. 

This policy means that all Cyd employees can request as many volunteering hours as they wish- empowering our team to maximise the positive impact we can make together. 

Ruby Garrigan, Social Value Officer shared her pride with the policy’s strong start: 

The use of this new policy is off to a strong start. Staff recently spent two afternoons volunteering at the Greenfield Heritage Site to help remove the invasive Himalayan Balsam from the riverside. With the introduction of this new policy we look forward to seeing what other wonderful initiatives the Cyd family can contribute towards. 

Measuring What Matters 

 Transparency and accountability are at the heart of our social value strategy. Yet, we know that measuring impact can be one of the most complex aspects of delivery. At Cyd Innovation, we use a robust blend of proxy values, qualitative insights, quantitative metrics, and advanced reporting tools to track progress and demonstrate value. 

We conduct quarterly audits to help clients assess their performance, celebrate successes, and identify areas for improvement. With our expert guidance, organisations can achieve deeper impact, strengthen community relationships, and do so more efficiently than managing it internally. 

A Commitment to Lasting Change 

 As we grow, our purpose remains clear: to deliver social value not as a compliance exercise, but as a catalyst for real, lasting change. Together, we can ensure that every project contributes to healthier homes, stronger communities, and a more sustainable, inclusive future for all.