TOMs (Themes, Outcomes, and Measures)
The social value evaluation framework used in central government procurement under PPN 002; five themes with defined outcomes and measures.
Definition
TOMs (Themes, Outcomes, and Measures) is the social value evaluation framework used in central government procurements under PPN 002. TOMs is structured into five themes: Jobs, Growth, Social, Environmental, and Wellbeing. Each theme has defined outcomes and specific measures with attached proxy values (financial estimates of the social value generated). Buyers set a minimum number of TOMs commitments that bidders must meet, and bidders score additional points for exceeding the minimum.
How it works in practice
The most widely-used TOMs framework is the National TOMs maintained by the Social Value Portal and adopted by hundreds of UK public bodies. The five themes are: Jobs (creating local employment, apprenticeships, paying the Real Living Wage), Growth (supporting SMEs and the voluntary sector through subcontract spend), Social (improving health and wellbeing, supporting vulnerable groups, building community resilience), Environmental (reducing carbon emissions, improving biodiversity, transitioning to sustainable supply chains), Wellbeing (improving employee wellbeing, mental health support, work-life balance). Each measure has a specific evidence requirement and a "proxy value" representing the estimated social value generated per unit. For example, a measure might be "X hours of training delivered to long-term unemployed people" with a proxy value of £15 per hour. Bidders commit to specific quantified outcomes against the measures the buyer has prioritised, and the proxy values aggregate to a total social value figure used in the bid evaluation. Reporting during delivery uses the same TOMs taxonomy: suppliers report actual outcomes against committed measures quarterly, with the proxy values aggregating to a delivered social value figure. Underperformance is a contract management issue and (under PA 2023) contributes to the supplier conduct record.
Common questions
How many TOMs measures do I need to commit to?
The buyer sets the minimum in the ITT. Typically 5 to 10 measures with specific volume commitments. Higher-value contracts often require 15 to 20 measures. The buyer prioritises which measures matter most for the contract context (urban vs rural, sector specifics, demographic priorities).
Are proxy values standard across the public sector?
The National TOMs framework provides standard proxy values widely adopted across UK public sector. Some authorities customise the proxies to reflect local context (cost of living adjustments, sector-specific weightings). The ITT will reference the specific TOMs version being used; check this before pricing your commitments.
What happens if I miss a TOMs commitment?
The contract states the consequence. Common mechanisms are performance improvement plans, service credits, and contribution to the supplier conduct record under PA 2023. Sustained underperformance can be grounds for contract termination. Treat TOMs commitments as binding contract obligations rather than aspirational targets.