Written question WQ98312

We work closely with our third sector partner to strengthen the operating environment through an updated Code of Practice for Funding the Sector, which we encouraged all funders of third sector organisations to adopt. The Code of Practice forms part of the statutory Third Sector Scheme. It has been co-produced with both the third sector and public sector through the Funding and Compliance sub-committee of the Third Sector Partnership Council to ensure it is useful, relevant and up to date.

Through the Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Act, the socially responsible procurement duties will require Welsh Contracting Authorities to use procurement to improve economic, social, environmental, and cultural well‑being. These new obligations will ensure Wales delivers socially responsible procurement that drives better outcomes for communities. These changes come into force on 25 March 2026.

Specifically, these changes will:

• Embed a legal duty on Contracting Authorities to pursue well‑being goals through procurement.

• Require Contracting Authorities to publish socially responsible procurement objectives and strategies.

• Mandate social public works clauses in larger contracts or a formal notification if those clauses are not used.

• Imposes annual reporting requirements on Contracting Authorities.

All changes are supported by statutory guidance and regulations which we have been consulted on.