Over recent months there has been a flurry of new impact reports from social investors across the UK. It is great that intermediaries are publishing these reports that show what social investment can help achieve but also highlighting some of the challenges and lessons along the way.
Here is a brief summary of my interpretation of the different reports:
Social and Sustainable Capital (SASC) Impact Report 2018
This report provides an overview of SASC’s impact approach, key lessons from different types of finance and details of their portfolio from the Community Investment Fund and Third Sector Investment Fund. There is also an interesting article by Dawn Austwick (the CEO of Big Lottery Fund) reflecting on her experience of social investment.
Bridges Fund Management Annual Impact Report 2017
For the first time Bridges have combined their impact and learning from their work in the USA and UK. There are some impressive stats and examples about the impact being delivered from the multiple funds managed by Bridges. The report also provides a useful overview of the global Impact Management Project which has developed lots of practical tools and resources.
Nesta Impact Investments Annual Report
Nesta’s annual report provides an overview of their impact approach and key highlights from across their diverse range investments. The report also includes an interesting discussion about how the fund considers impact risk and return in its investment decision making process.
Real Lettings Property Fund. Fourth Year Impact Report
This report provides an overview of the impact that the fund is delivering in partnership with St Mungo’s Broadway. It combines both data and stories from tenants of Real Lettings properties and highlights the incredible difference that is being achieved. The report also provides a thoughtful overview of some of the opportunities and challenges for the fund together with options for the future.
Resonance have also recently published impact reports for the Bristol SITR Fund, the National Homelessness Property Fund and Community Land and Finance CIC which includes evidence and learning about the Affordable Homes Rental Fund and the Community Share Underwriting Fund.
It is encouraging that so many social investors are openly sharing their impact and learning and to see the progress that has been made over recent years. More importantly, it is great to see the difference that charities and social enterprises are making to the lives of people in the UK by addressing some of the most challenging issues in society.