Social Investment Impact Report, first ever released by council

Admin

April 23, 2025
3 min read

Social Investment Impact Report, first ever released by council

Kensington and Chelsea Council has released its first ever social investment impact report, shedding light on how public funds are being channelled into initiatives that deliver tangible benefits for local residents. This comprehensive document evaluates the social, economic, and environmental returns generated through the Council’s expenditures and asset management during the 2023/24 financial year. Notably, the report reveals that for every £1 invested, projects yielded returns ranging from £2.07 to £4.83, underscoring the effectiveness of these community-focused programmes.

Among the highlighted initiatives, the DigitALL project and Digital Helpers programme stand out, returning £3.40 for every pound spent by enhancing residents’ digital skills and access to technology. The Children’s Book Project, operating from a socially invested lease in North Kensington, achieved a £2.07 return per £1, promoting literacy and educational engagement. Money Cafés, offering financial guidance, delivered a £4.83 return, while employment and skills projects facilitated a £3.31 return, aiding residents in securing training and job opportunities. Educational activities at Leighton House Museum also contributed, with a £2.57 return per £1 invested.

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Beyond individual programmes, the Council’s procurement strategies have significantly amplified social value. A partnership with waste management firm Suez generated £7.7 million in additional social value, while a parks maintenance contract with Idverde resulted in over 7,000 volunteer sessions, three apprenticeships, and two internships, fostering community engagement and employment pathways.

This report marks a pivotal step in the Council’s commitment to transparency and accountability, providing residents with insights into how public funds are being utilised to foster community well-being. By quantifying the social returns of various initiatives, the Council aims to inform future investments and ensure that resources are directed towards programmes that yield the most significant benefits for the community.

To read the impact report and find out more about social investment in the borough, visit the website.

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