Published: Thursday 17 April 2025
Kensington and Chelsea Council has published its first-ever social investment impact report showcasing the value of the social, economic and environmental benefits it is delivering for residents.
The report, which covers activities from 2023/24, highlights some of the ways the Council has worked to achieve the best possible social return from the goods and services it buys, and the property, parks and housing it manages on behalf of residents.
It also calculates the return on investment the Council received for every pound it spent on specific social investment projects. This figure is based on real outcomes experienced by residents, such as gaining employment, increased health and wellbeing and enhanced digital skills.
Highlights from the first report include returns of:
- £3.40 for every £1 spent on the DigitALL project and on Digital Helpers, who help residents access digital equipment and develop their skills
- £2.07 for every £1 spent on providing the Children’s Book Project with a social investment lease in North Kensington
- £4.83 for every £1 spent on running Money Cafes where residents can access financial support
- £3.31 for every £1 spent on running employment and skills projects to help residents into training and jobs
- £2.57 for every £1 spent on educational activities for young people at Leighton House Museum
The Council has also achieved social returns through its procurement activities, ranging from £7.7 million in additional social value generated through its waste contract with Suez to more than 7,000 volunteering sessions, three apprenticeships and two internships set up via a parks contract with Idverde.
To read the impact report and find out more about social investment at Kensington and Chelsea Council, visit the website.