SROIproject

Forth Sector was keen to participate in the pilot project as it wanted to investigate the impact it was having on the local economy and on statutory services. Anecdotal evidence suggested that by participating in work and training in a supportive environment, individuals were gaining a range of benefits that led to improved recovery from mental illness. Reports from people with mental health problems working in the social firms suggested that there could be an impact on local mental health and social services, where fewer interventions were required to support individuals working in social firms.

The report shows how the social firm is making a real difference to people with mental health problems who work and train there, but demonstrates it is also doing this in a cost effective way that benefits its stakeholders as well as society as a whole.

The analysis shows savings to mental health and support services in Edinburgh of over £420,000 per annum, and savings on welfare benefits and gains in employment income and tax income of almost £50,000 per annum. Social added value per participant is almost £25,000 per annum, for an investment of £3,500.

The report demonstrates that for the period under study, for every £1 invested in Six Mary's Place Guest House, almost £6 is returned in social added value.

For more information please contact us.