The Buy Social Pledge, run by Social Enterprise Scotland, brings together corporate businesses, SMEs, academic institutions, and public sector bodies looking to make a commitment to bring social enterprises into their supply chains.

Organisations who sign up to the Buy Social Pledge commit to fostering inclusive economic growth. The pledge signifies a transformative approach to doing business, where businesses become catalysts for positive change in communities.

Balfour Beatty already works with many Social and Supported Enterprises across Scotland such as Giraffe Catering at Dunfermline Learning Campus who provide jobs and training for people with disabilities, Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, who provide support, employment and training for veterans and Edible Estates in Edinburgh - a community interest company established in 2017 to promote and establish community growing projects, particularly in Council estates.

Bethany Welsh, social impact advisor at Balfour Beatty, said: “We are thrilled to join the Buy Social Pledge, reinforcing our commitment to fostering social and environmental progress through our procurement practices.

“By continuing to integrate social enterprises into our supply chain, we aim to drive inclusive economic growth and create lasting positive impacts within the communities we serve across Scotland.”

Chris Martin, CEO at Social Enterprise Scotland, said: “By joining the Buy Social Pledge, businesses can use their spend to create substantial social and environmental benefits. We are excited to welcome Balfour Beatty as they join other pioneers in this initiative. Their commitment will not only drive positive changes within their supply chain but also inspire other organisations to contribute towards building a more inclusive, green and sustainable economy in Scotland.

“We are delighted to see Balfour Beatty join several other early adopters in signing the Buy Social Pledge and look forward to working with Bethany and her team to unlock their purchasing power to drive positive change in our communities.”