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Buy Social Scotland

Argyll and Bute Council signs up to the Buy Social Pledge

Argyll and Bute Council are the latest local authority to sign up to Social Enterprise Scotland’s "Buy Social" pledge.

Argyll and Bute Council has become the fifth local authority in Scotland to sign the Buy Social Pledge, an initiative that empowers organisations to use their purchasing power for social and environmental good across Scotland’s communities.

Organisations who sign up to the Buy Social Pledge commit to promoting inclusive economic growth. The pledge signifies a transformative approach, where businesses become the key drivers for positive, measurable change in the communities.

Councillor Jim Lynch, Leader of Argyll and Bute Council, said "We are extremely proud to support the Buy Social Pledge. By harnessing our purchasing power to support social enterprises, we are not only investing in organisations that prioritise people and our planet, but we are also helping to create meaningful employment, reduce inequality, and champion environmental sustainability across Argyll and Bute — and beyond."

Jamie Lawson, Strategic Partnerships and Engagement Manager at Social Enterprise Scotland said: “We are delighted to welcome Argyll and Bute Council as the latest local authority to join the Buy Social Pledge.

“By committing to purchase from social enterprises, the council is not only delivering exceptional value to its residents but is also helping to build community wealth — ensuring that local spending strengthens local economies, supports good jobs, and keeps money circulating within the region.

“We hope their example will inspire other councils across Scotland to harness the power of social enterprise and drive meaningful, lasting change."

The pledge sees organisations commit to 5 key actions:

  1. Recognise Fair Work for All – champion fair work principles, prioritise Real Living Wages, narrow the Gender Pay Gap, foster Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and eradicate zero-hour contracts
  2. Environmental Impact for a Sustainable Tomorrow – embrace a net zero policy
  3. Support Social Enterprises – onboard and promote social enterprises within their supply chains, helping to foster an ecosystem that nurtures and supports these invaluable organisations, amplifying their positive impact.
  4. Prompt Payment, Ethical Business – organisations will commit to prompt payment, resulting in ethical business relationships.
  5. Measure Positive Impact – Commit transparency and accountability by reporting annual spend with social enterprises.