Why Sustainability Isn’t Optional for Care Providers Anymore

Not long ago, sustainability was a nice-to-have in the care sector. Today, it’s a non-negotiable.

Whether you’re bidding for a local authority contract or trying to stand out in the private care market, sustainability isn’t just about ticking a box—it’s about showing that your business is future-ready, community-focused, and environmentally responsible.

At Big Sister, we’re not here to scare you into sustainability—we’re here to show you that it’s achievable, rewarding, and essential. Here’s why you can’t afford to ignore it anymore—and what to do about it.

  1. Public Sector Contracts Now Score Sustainability

Let’s start with the facts. In both the UK and the US, public sector contracts now formally score sustainability under social value guidelines. This includes:

  • Environmental sustainability (waste reduction, energy use, transport)
  • Social sustainability (inclusive employment, community investment)
  • Economic sustainability (fair pay, apprenticeships, local sourcing)

If your bid doesn’t demonstrate how your service delivers on these areas, you’re unlikely to win.

Big Sister’s bid writing team—including social value specialists like Ima Johnstone—are experts in translating your efforts into scoring answers. If you’re doing the work but not getting the credit in your bids, we’ll help bridge that gap.

  1. Clients Want Purpose-Driven Providers

The modern care client—whether it’s a family choosing homecare or a commissioner scoring a bid—wants more than “adequate” service. They want:

  • Providers that give back to the community
  • Carers who are treated fairly
  • Evidence that you’re not harming the planet in your operations

This isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing that you care beyond the contract.

Sharing your story, your values, and the steps you’re taking (even small ones) can make a big difference in how you’re perceived. This is something we embed in every Big Sister business, through our Care for the Future programme and beyond.

  1. Sustainability Supports Financial Resilience

Think sustainability is expensive? In reality, it can save you money. Examples:

  • Switching to digital records reduces paper costs and storage needs.
  • Choosing local suppliers cuts fuel use—and delivery delays.
  • Energy-efficient appliances and lighting save on utilities.
  • Offering virtual visits (where appropriate) saves travel time and petrol.

Sustainability isn’t just an environmental concern—it’s a business efficiency strategy.

  1. Your Staff Want to Work for Ethical Employers

People don’t just work for a paycheck—they want to feel proud of where they work.

Incorporating sustainability shows staff:

  • You’re committed to doing the right thing.
  • You care about more than profit.
  • You’re building a legacy worth being part of.

This improves morale, boosts retention, and helps with recruitment—something every care provider is currently struggling with.

  1. The Regulatory Landscape Is Shifting

Whether it’s CQC in the UK or CMS in the US, regulators are becoming more interested in sustainability.

We’re seeing:

  • Greater scrutiny of provider transport models
  • Pressure to reduce single-use plastics
  • Expectations of robust environmental policies

Having a sustainability policy on file is one thing—embedding it into your operations is what sets you apart.

Through Big Sister’s “Care for the Future” initiative, we help our investee businesses write policies, implement changes, and showcase sustainability throughout every stage of growth.

  1. You Don’t Have to Go It Alone

We get it—you’re running a care service, not a climate think tank. That’s why Big Sister builds the tools and templates for you. Through our Care for the Future programme, we provide:

  • Quarterly sustainability check-ins
  • Templates for green policies and environmental action plans
  • Access to case studies and examples that score in real-life bids
  • Ongoing guidance from our bid team to position your efforts effectively

Plus, our YouTube channel @bigsistercare features video explainers and inspiration for putting sustainability into action.

Follow us on Instagram too (@bigsisterhomecare) for weekly hints and tips that are quick, clear, and achievable—even for small care businesses.

  1. Start Small — But Start Now

You don’t have to overhaul everything overnight. Start with three small changes:

  1. Switch to eco-cleaning products that are better for carers and clients.
  2. Offer paperless invoices and care plans to clients and commissioners.
  3. Ask your team to suggest green improvements—they often have the best ideas!

Then, use your bid submissions, website, and client comms to share your progress. Don’t worry about being perfect—progress is powerful.

Final Thought: Sustainability = Legacy

Caring for people goes hand-in-hand with caring for the planet. When you run a care business, you already have compassion built into your DNA. Sustainability is just the next step.

Whether you’re looking to secure your next big contract, build a brand your community respects, or ensure your business is ready for the next 10 years, sustainability is no longer optional.

It’s your responsibility.
It’s your opportunity.
And with Big Sister, it’s completely within reach.

Watch our Care for the Future playlist on YouTube – @bigsistercare
Follow us on Instagram for weekly tips – @bigsisterhomecare

Download our brochure or book a call

Looking for help showcasing sustainability in your next bid? Get in touch with our bid writing team—we’ll help you go green and win big.