Services for employers

When a contract is awarded by the Council to a business, there is an expectation that the contractor will agree to provide additional benefits for local schools, residents, and/or community groups. This is referred to as ‘added value’, and is about achieving more from public spending to benefit the local community.

Community benefits can provide employers with links to schools, work experience opportunities, training opportunities, apprenticeships and potential employees, in order to aid contractors in providing their added value. Community Benefits can also provide environmental benefits by securing materials or equipment for community projects or other innovative opportunities designed to benefit the residents of East Lothian.

If you require any support in regards to Community Benefits, or you are the representative of a charity or organisation that would benefit from the added value provided by contractors to the council, please get in touch with East Lothian Works, stating that you are looking for the Community Benefits Co-ordinator, and we will be happy to help.

More general information about Community Benefits can be found on the Sustainable Procurement and Community Benefits page.

Community Benefits in Action

Jacobs Consulting Services: Inspiring Young People through STEM

As part of delivering the East Lothian Coastal Adaptation Plan, Jacobs Consulting Services supported Community Benefits by engaging with pupils at Musselburgh Grammar School.

Jacobs delivered an interactive STEM and careers session to S1 Geography pupils focused on “Our Coast, Our Future”, exploring water, biodiversity, climate change, and how local communities can shape coastal decisions. Pupils learned how simple actions—such as reducing plastic use and saving water—help protect the environment.

Young people were invited to create posters for the public consultation, giving them a real opportunity to contribute their views, while also learning about subject choices and future careers in civil engineering and related fields. 

TFS (The Furnishing Service)

Are contracted to provide domestic furniture to East Lothian Council. They provided East Lothian Works with £250 towards “presentation packs” which allows our 16+ clients access to toiletries and pays for a hair cut and any other necessities that will get them ready for an interview. 

BAM Facilities Management  

Who are contracted to provide facilities management services at Rosehill Community High School continue to provide a wealth of community benefits including employing an apprentice receptionist hired from the local community. In December their Social Value Manager Vicky Philips spent three days at Rosehill delivering careers events.