Understanding the TOMs Framework: How it Drives Social Value

In today's business landscape, it's no longer enough to simply deliver a product or service. Organisations are increasingly expected to demonstrate their commitment to social value – the broader positive impact they have on society. One framework that's gaining traction in helping businesses achieve and measure their social value outcomes is the TOMs Framework.

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What is the TOMs Framework?

The TOMs Framework (Themes, Outcomes, and Measures) provides a structured approach to defining, delivering, and reporting on social value. It helps organisations move beyond good intentions and translate their social responsibility goals into tangible actions and measurable results.

Themes, outcomes, and measures explained

The framework is built around three core components:

• Themes: These are broad areas of social value focus, such as job creation, skills development, environmental sustainability, or community engagement.

• Outcomes: Within each theme, specific, desired outcomes are defined. For example, under the theme of job creation, an outcome might be "reducing unemployment among disadvantaged groups."

• Measures: These are the metrics used to track progress toward achieving the defined outcomes. For the "reducing unemployment" outcome, a measure could be the "number of individuals from disadvantaged groups placed into sustainable employment."

  
  

How the TOMs Framework benefits employers

• Attract and Retain Talent: Employees are increasingly drawn to companies with a strong social purpose.

• Win More Business: Many contracts, especially in the public sector, now require bidders to demonstrate social value.

• Strengthen Brand Reputation: Customers are more likely to support businesses that are making a positive impact.

• Drive Innovation: Focusing on social value can spark new ideas and approaches to business challenges.

  
  

Partnering for social value success

For employers looking to maximise their social value impact, partnering with organisations like Homewood Training can be a game-changer. Homewood Training specialises in connecting employers with candidates from priority and underrepresented groups, helping them deliver on diversity and social value commitments. They can also assist with reporting on and achieving targets aligned with the TOMs Framework, along with creating customised training solutions.