Limitations have been noted for the employ of social return on investment (SROI) in physical activity and sport (PAS). A group of researchers recently produced a series of papers describing their efforts to standardize the application of SROI to PAS. Two of these papers, a systematic review and a subsequent commentary summarizing lessons learned from a Delphi study of experts, were published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health . In this commentary, I reflect on the findings of the systematic review and respond to the lessons learned. In their lessons learned, Nieto et al conclude no causal evidence exists for relationships between PAS with crime, social capital, or the environment. Furthermore, limited evidence exists for causality between PAS and some indicators of educational attainment and subjective well-being. Given that a critical component of a properly conducted SROI is the development of a logic model describing the causal relationship between inputs, outputs, and outcomes, I argue that the lack of causal relationships for much of the key outcomes for PAS is problematic. I identify other limitations for the current body of SROIs for PAS including mostly unpublished commissioned works and a lack of regulatory mechanisms. I applaud efforts to establish consensus for good practice in the application of SROI approaches to PAS. However, an additional apparent lesson from the work of Nieto and colleagues is that most SROIs are making faulty and inflated claims about the impact of PAS on social outcomes (eg, crime).

Social entrepreneurship (SE) in the context of Ukraine’s post-war recovery is one of the key instruments for restoring employment, revitalizing local economies, and promoting the social integration of vulnerable groups. However, under the conditions of Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, traditional methods for assessing social return on investment, in particular the Social Return on Investment (SROI) approach, require adaptation to the wartime context. The classical SROI methodology, which is widely applied to evaluate the impact of social enterprises in peacetime [10], does not take into account specific factors associated with the loss of human capital, business relocation, infrastructure destruction, and the increased social value of basic needs during wartime. This study proposes a new impact assessment method—War-Adjusted Social Return on Investment (w-SROI)—which enables the calculation of an integrated indicator of social return on investment that incorporates adjustment coefficients reflecting war-related risks and economic losses. Under the current conditions in Ukraine, a combination of necessity-driven and opportunity-driven entrepreneurship is emerging, with the social mission increasingly defining the content and direction of entrepreneurial activity. This provides a foundation for considering social entrepreneurship as an essential mechanism for restoring human capital, fostering local community development, and strengthening the economy in the post-war period. Social entrepreneurship represents a crucial instrument in Ukraine’s post-war recovery, contributing both to economic growth and to the resolution of social challenges. Supporting this sector is imperative for ensuring the country’s sustainable and inclusive reconstruction. Accordingly, to better understand and assess the impact of social entrepreneurship under wartime conditions and during post-war recovery, the author proposes complementing the classical measurement approach with an adjusted indicator — War-Adjusted Social Return on Investment (w-SROI).

Football cooperative: a pragmatic controlled trial of a community-based physical activity social intervention for men when replicated using a Social Return on Investment (SROI) framework protocol paper.

This study evaluates the financing and policy architecture of low-threshold clubs for children and youth in the Czech Republic—informal educational spaces that provide preventive, developmental, and integrative services to vulnerable populations. Specifically, the study examines: (a) national-level funding flows and expenditures across five major providers; (b) local operational realities in a case study of Ústí nad Labem; and (c) the European Commission’s policy stance on social infrastructure co-financing. The analysis draws on a semi-synthetic dataset constructed from public financial reports, ministry allocations, and interpolated values based on provider averages. Descriptive statistics and a simple linear regression model (Adj. R² = .971) demonstrate that approximately 91.2% of total funding is linearly translated into operational expenditures. Additionally, the Social Return on Investment (SROI) framework is applied to map the broader impact of these centres, including volunteer contributions and community outcomes, using a theory-of-change logic model. Results show a heavy reliance on EU operational programmes—particularly OP VVV, which covers an estimated 74% of total funding—with national and local sources unable to compensate for its absence. The fragmented governance across ministries (Education, Social Affairs, Interior, Health) further impedes coordinated data collection and long-term planning. These findings underscore the need for integrated, multi-ministerial policy frameworks, sustained funding cycles, and formal recognition of volunteer and informal educational contributions. The study provides a replicable model for assessing cost-effectiveness and long-term value in youth social services at both national and European levels.

BackgroundCost‐benefit analysis has recently been increasingly used to evaluate the value of interventions for dementia. This study aims to synthesise the data analysis approach, cost and benefit items, data sources, and valuation methods used in cost benefit analyses of interventions for dementia.MethodA scoping review was conducted to address the research aims. Comprehensive systematic searches were performed on in PubMed, MEDLINE, CINALH, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO and Econlit electronic databases for peer‐reviewed original articles published in English from January 2010 to December 2023 (i) performed a CBA of interventions for dementia (ii) described either cost or benefit items; (iii) performed quantitative data analysis on either costs or benefits. Two authors independently screened and extracted data. The PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews Checklist was used to guide the report writing.ResultThe review included 15 studies. Both traditional CBA approach and its integration with the social return on investment (SROI) approach have been used for CBA of interventions for dementia. The set of cost and benefit items may vary depending on the intervention. Staff training, intervention supplies, building hire, and transportation were common cost items. Quality‐adjusted life years (QALY), general practitioner visits, and emergency room visits were common benefit items. Cost data were often sourced from the study budget/ assumptions. Market and shadow pricing were used for cost valuation. Benefit data were often sourced from the social value banks and literature. The value of statistical life was frequently used for benefit valuation.ConclusionMethodology approaches for CBA of interventions for dementia are heterogeneous. The findings provide helpful information for considering methodological approaches in future CBA of interventions for dementia and similar interventions or conditions.

BackgroundGendered approaches to engage men are recommended for health promotion, with community settings, that involve physical activity and specifically football being frequently employed. One such football initiative, Football Cooperative (FC), has operated in Ireland since 2017 bringing men together twice a week for ‘pick up’ games. However, there is limited understanding of the reach or impact of the initiative, and an economic evaluation would inform policy decisions around the allocation of scarce resources within the public health and community-based setting.MethodsA localised version of cost-benefit analysis – Social Return on Investment (SROI) – was employed to assess this initiative. This involved a study of one site in 2021/2022 without a control group, and a range of data (self-reported and anthropometric) were collected at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months. One hundred and twenty-three Participants (P) were available for this study, which also gathered data from other stakeholders, Significant Others (SO), Community Partners (CP) and Volunteer Coordinators (VC).ResultsOutcomes were validated with all stakeholders and measured by the stakeholders. Input costs were also gathered, and a comparison of outcomes with costs showed an SROI ratio of €17.60 in benefit for every €1 invested in the single FC site. Additional analysis exploring the implications of scaling this initiative to ten sites proposes an SROI ratio of €9.46 for every €1 invested.ConclusionsThe computed SROI ratios for a single site and for ten sites compare favourably with those of other health initiatives particularly other football and community based SROI evaluations. Furthermore, this study quantifies the benefits of football participation from a mental health and social perspective in addition to physical benefits, and it also highlights the benefits of football participation to other stakeholders such as participants’ family (SO). Future research could expand on this study and investigate the impact of future football initiatives in diverse locations with larger cohorts.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-025-25288-2.

Against the backdrop of efforts to improve the quality of urban spatial stock, assessments of spatial benefits driven by consumption preferences integrate subjective decision-making and objective environmental factors to provide quantitative evidence for urban planning and public investment. This study constructed a “environment-perception–behavior” analytical framework grounded in SOR (stimulus–organism–response) theory. We combined structural equation modeling with the hedonic pricing method to identify causal pathways and quantify the marginal value of spatial elements. XGBoost was employed to uncover consumption-preference thresholds, Coupling Coordination Degree (CCD) was used to identify spatial supply–demand relationships, and Social Return on Investment (SROI) was applied to evaluate multidimensional urban spatial benefits. The results showed that transportation accessibility, commercial diversity, green-space quality, and cultural ambiance significantly shaped distinct consumption preferences. Central urban areas approached supply saturation in commercial and daily consumption and exhibited diminishing marginal returns, whereas peripheral zones demonstrated greater potential for sports and cultural consumption. Based on these findings, we reveal the underlying logic of spatial benefit distribution and classify the study area into High-efficiency matching zones, transition matching zones, and potential zones. We further propose targeted optimization recommendations that can inform policy on urban spatial functional positioning and social investment and provide evaluation criteria for prioritizing interventions.

Background/Objectives: Diabetes is Mexico's second-leading cause of death, primary cause of disability, and diabetic retinopathy (DR) associated with this disease is the leading cause of vision loss among the working population. Limited healthcare funding and inequitable access hinder diagnosis and treatment, leaving 32% undiagnosed and at risk of developing serious complications such as DR. With screening rates declining, nonprofits like the Association to Prevent Blindness in Mexico (APEC) play a crucial role in detecting diabetes and DR, reducing healthcare costs, and improving patient outcomes. Methods: This study analyzes data from over 25,000 first-time patients screened at APEC in 2023, providing a unique empirical resource on diabetes and DR in Mexico. Using the Social Return on Investment (SROI) approach, it evaluates program costs (medical resources, equipment, and personnel) against patient benefits. These benefits are quantified as the probability that newly diagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes patients begin treatment, thus preventing DR, weighted by the Value of Statistical Life (VSL). Results: Of the total screened patients, 17.2% had diabetes. Among them, 20.0% were unaware of their condition, while the remaining 80.0% knew their diagnosis. Notably, 25.8% of those who were aware of their diagnosis did not have diabetes under control. Considering all costs associated with the first-time ophthalmology patients screening program and assuming only a portion of patients would seek treatment, every peso invested by APEC has the potential to generate the equivalent to 542 pesos in patient well-being. When factoring in the subsequent costs of diabetes control treatment borne by the patients, the potential Benefit-Cost Ratio is estimated at 9:1. These results proved consistent to sensitivity analysis for key assumptions affecting the estimated benefits and costs. Conclusions: The study demonstrates that integrating routine diabetes screening into specialized ophthalmologic care can generate substantial social value through timely intervention, as early detection promotes better diabetes management and helps prevent complications beyond diabetic retinopathy.

ABSTRACT The Social Return on Investment (SROI) framework has been used globally by public agencies and third-sector organisations to evaluate the social impacts of their activities. The evidence that physical activity and sports (PAS) have health and social benefits is accumulating. However, there is a need to demonstrate accountability for public expenditure. The present research uses a transversal, retrospective design with the application of an evaluative SROI methodology to evaluate PAS interventions in South America for the first time. PAS interventions were offered by the Institute of Recreation and Sports (IDRD) in Bogota. Given the available information, the model only included the impact of the programs in health. The six standard steps for applying the SROI framework were followed. Semi-structured interviews with stakeholders were conducted, an impact map of inputs, outputs, and outcomes was created, and the SROI ratio was calculated including sensitivity analyses. For every $1 spent, a SROI of between $0.38 to $28.94 was generated in 2022. Sensitivity analyses showed robustness of the ratios in the face of a change in participation rates and instability in the face of changes in the percentage of risk reduction due to PAS. This research shows the value returned to the population when investing in PAS activities. This is the first application of the SROI to community-based programs in South America and can be used as a guide on what is needed to reliably adjust the model to the context. Finally, it contributes to further support the benefits of PAS globally.

This study aims to measure the value of Social Return on Investment (SROI) from the Local Food Heritage Program (PUSPALOKA) run by PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Fuel Terminal Rewulu in Padukuhan Bendo, Ngentakrejo Village, Kulon Progo Regency. This program is part of the implementation of Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) in supporting community empowerment through improving the agricultural sector and food processing based on local potential. The research uses a qualitative approach with data collection techniques in the form of in-depth interviews from various stakeholders and the study of program documents. The analysis was carried out based on the SROI framework which includes five main stages, namely stakeholder identification, outcome identification, proof and value, impact determination, and calculation of social investment benefit ratio. The results of the study showed that the total benefits generated by the program reached IDR 231,939,744.30 compared to the total investment of IDR 82,329,760.07 resulting in an SROI ratio of 2.82. This means that every Rp1 social investment provides economic and social benefits of Rp2.82 for the community. The significant impact achieved by the program includes increasing agricultural productivity through the use of organic fertilizer Orgamin, saving production costs, working time efficiency, increasing women's income through the activities of the Subur Makmur Women Farmer Group (KWT), as well as strengthening social cohesion and community group capacity. In addition, there is a positive contribution to the environment through the reduction of organic waste and the absorption of carbon emissions. Overall, the results of the study confirm that the PUSPALOKA Program is not only socially feasible, but also contributes to sustainable development at the community level. Recommendations were submitted to strengthen the sustainability of the program through entrepreneurship training, marketing development, and business digitalization for the sake of community independence in the future.

Environmental Protection Plans (EPPs) are vital for mitigating the socio-ecological impacts of quarry operations, especially in emerging economies like Thailand, where rapid industrialization often intensifies air, water, noise, and land degradation. This study applies the social return on investment (SROI) framework to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of multi-domain EPPs implemented in a quarry. By applying compliance-based assessment and monetization of environmental and health co-benefits, annual economic outcomes were quantified for particulate matter (PM10), total dissolved solids (TDS), noise reduction, and carbon sequestration. The analysis revealed a high SROI ratio of 59.55:1, primarily driven by substantial health benefits from PM10 and noise abatement. This ratio also reflects consideration of investment from an annual operational cost, with a sensitivity analysis of incorporating an estimated capital expenditure, reducing the ratio to moderate value ranges of 5–10:1. A number of limitations, such as exclusion of capital costs, reliance on fixed proxies, and single-year scope, may overstate short-term returns, suggesting the application of stochastic methods for enhanced robustness. Overall, the findings demonstrate that EPPs deliver substantial economic and public health benefits, supporting their role in fostering community resilience and advancing sustainable operations in quarry sectors.

Abstract Coastal communities are highly vulnerable to climate change yet play a critical role in mitigating global warming. However, many experience poverty due to limited income and inadequate access to clean water and energy. Although various assessment frameworks exist, studies on the social return on investment (SROI) for polygeneration systems in coastal communities remain scarce. Therefore, this study proposed a novel algae-salt mariculture polygeneration system to address these challenges, incorporating the SROI approach to evaluate its social value, with a coastal community in Pamekasan Regency, Madura Island, serving as a case study. The system integrates solar salt production and seaweed farming with solar energy–derived potable water production and pyrolysis technology within the saltworks area. The SROI methodology involves identifying key stakeholders, mapping outcomes, evidencing and valuing those outcomes, and establishing impact by accounting for deadweight, attribution, displacement, and drop-off, from which the SROI ratio is ultimately derived. This system produces solar salt, seaweed, clean water, and energy, benefiting local farmers. Excess electrical energy is supplied to the coastal community once the system’s energy needs are met, while the pyrolysis process produces bio-oil, biogas, and biochar as fuels. Furthermore, the system reduces CO 2 emissions by 1,000 kg per year through seaweed absorption and renewable energy utilization. Financial proxy values were assigned to these outcomes, resulting in an SROI ratio of 10.28:1, indicating that every $1 invested in this system generates $10.28 of social value. Ultimately, this proposed system will shed light on how stakeholders can enhance the well-being of coastal communities, improve the saltworks model, and contribute to climate change mitigation while also enabling the implementation of an energy-self-sufficient village.

IntroductionDespite increasing palliative care capabilities in the USA, utilisation rates remain low for patients with advanced cancer, particularly among African American patients. To address this gap, a theory-driven, stakeholder-informed community health worker (CHW) palliative care intervention for African American patients with advanced cancer and their informal caregivers is currently being assessed through a hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation trial at four cancer centres across the USA. To improve the quality and efficiency of palliative care delivery, inform resource allocation and guide broad-scale implementation, it is essential to generate evidence on the economic value of palliative care programmes. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and estimate the social value of a CHW palliative care intervention for African American patients with advanced cancer and their caregivers.Methods and analysisWe will conduct cost-effectiveness analyses (CEAs) and a social return-on-investment (SROI) analysis to assess the value of the CHW palliative care intervention compared with enhanced standard of care. Standard, extended and distributional CEAs will be performed from the perspectives of an adopting organisation or payer (eg, Medicaid), the US healthcare sector and society. An SROI analysis will also be conducted to assess the social value of the intervention. These analyses will focus on estimating the costs, health and distributional impacts of the intervention.Ethics and disseminationThis study protocol was approved by the Johns Hopkins Medicine Institutional Review Board (IRB00372476). All methods will be carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations. Written informed consent will be obtained from all subjects prior to study participation. This manuscript does not contain participant-level data. The full protocol will be available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. The dissemination of findings from the clinical trial and accompanying economic evaluation outlined in this manuscript will be multifaceted to maximise reach and impact. Research findings will be presented at relevant scientific conferences, submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and shared with community stakeholders, including hospital leaders and administrators, providers, CHWs and patient advocacy groups.Trial registration numberNCT05407844.

This study aims to analyze the communication strategies implemented by the Communication, Relations, & Community Involvement and Development (CID) Team of Pertamina Subholding Upstream Regional Java in carrying out Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs to shape and strengthen the company’s image amidst social dynamics and high public expectations. This research employs a qualitative descriptive approach and refers to the four-phase public relations communication strategy model by Cutlip et al. (2016), which includes fact finding, planning and programming, taking action and communicating, and evaluating the problem. Data were collected through in depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis. The findings show that a structured, collaborative, and sustainable communication strategy effectively promotes active public engagement and increases community satisfaction with the CSR programs. Programs such as Pendidikan Lingkungan untuk Anak (PELITA) and other initiatives are implemented through a multiyear approach and widely disseminated via conventional media, mass media, and social media platforms. Program evaluations are carried out using tools such as Social Return on Investment (SROI) and the Community Satisfaction Index (IKM), which demonstrate that CSR programs not only create significant social impact but also enhance the company’s reputation. Open and participatory two-way communication proves to be the key to the success of these strategies. The study concludes that strategically implemented CSR serves not only as a form of corporate social responsibility but also as a vital instrument for building public trust and legitimacy.

The digital transformation of cooperatives has become a crucial strategy to enhance competitiveness and ensure sustainable member-based enterprises. This study aims to analyze the Social Return on Investment (SROI) of the program Future Finance: Transforming FEB Unair Cooperative into Digital Transactions with BRI through the utilization of the Localoka platform. The research employed the SROI framework, which includes stakeholder identification, impact mapping, outcome monetization, and SROI ratio calculation. Data were collected through event observation, documentation, and program financial reports. The findings reveal that the program generated outcomes worth IDR 1,050,025,000 with an input of IDR 52,381,000, resulting in an SROI ratio of 20.05. This indicates that every IDR 1 invested in the program yields a socio-economic return of IDR 20.05. The results highlight that the collaboration between the cooperative and BRI through Localoka not only fosters digital transaction adoption but also contributes positively to digital literacy, institutional reputation, and the economic welfare of cooperative members. This study provides practical implications for developing cooperative–financial institution partnerships to strengthen the digital ecosystem of MSMEs in Indonesia.

The paper contributes to the debate on the holistic sustainability assessment of real estate projects, integrating economic, financial, environmental, and social aspects. A methodological study is presented to support decision-making processes involving the preferability ranking of alternative investment scenarios: new building production vs. retrofitting the existing stock, in the context of urban transformation interventions. The study integrates life cycle approaches by introducing the social components besides the economic and environmental ones. Firstly, a composite unidimensional (monetary) indicator calculation is illustrated. The sustainability components are internalized in the NPV calculation through a Discounted Cash-Flow Analysis (DCFA). Life Cycle Costing (LCC) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) are suggested to assess the economic and environmental impacts, and the Social Return on Investment (SROI) to assess the intervention’s extra-financial value. Secondly, a methodology based on multicriteria techniques is proposed. The Hierarchical Analytical Process (AHP) model is suggested to harmonize various performance indicators. Focus is placed on the criticalities emerging in both the methodological approaches, while highlighting the relevance of multidimensional approaches in decision-making processes and for supporting urban policies and urban resilience.

Importance and Aims: Quality assurance in social work has become an increasingly critical concern for both scholars and practitioners, as services face growing demands for accountability, effectiveness, and equity. Despite the proliferation of quality frameworks worldwide, there is no universally accepted system for measuring quality in social work, creating inconsistencies in evaluation and practice. This study aims to conceptualize social work quality more comprehensively and to examine how international frameworks, accreditation standards, and methodological tools can be synthesized into a structured model for assessing and improving service excellence. Methods: The study employs a literature-based, exploratory qualitative design, drawing on academic sources, institutional guidelines, and international standards from organizations such as the IFSW, CSWE, EQUASS, and WHO. The analysis covers literature from 2000 to 2025, using thematic synthesis to identify recurring dimensions, indicators, and best practices. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed, English-language studies addressing social work quality frameworks, accreditation, or performance evaluation. Key Findings: The findings confirm that effectiveness, efficiency, equity, responsiveness, and professionalism remain the core dimensions of quality in social work. However, the study highlights persistent challenges, including the absence of universally agreed benchmarks and the tension between global standards and local adaptation. While international models such as ISO, EQUASS, COA/NASW, and WHO guidelines provide valuable baselines, they often require contextual flexibility to reflect diverse cultural, socio-economic, and institutional settings. Proposed methodologies—including client satisfaction surveys, case resolution rates, Social Return on Investment (SROI), and AI-driven assessment tools—offer valuable insights but must be integrated in hybrid ways to capture both measurable outputs and nuanced client experiences. Practical Implications: This study demonstrates that quality measurement in social work is not only a technical process but also a critical mechanism for advancing social justice, ethical integrity, and inclusive development. The proposed framework supports policymakers in designing evidence-based quality assurance systems, assists practitioners in embedding continuous improvement strategies, and guides organizations in aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 10, 16, and 17. By emphasizing hybrid methodologies and interdisciplinary collaboration, the study underscores that advancing quality in social work requires moving beyond compliance toward a dynamic process of service excellence, equity, and accountability across diverse contexts.

Abstract Background Social prescribing is a non-clinical approach connecting citizens to community support to better manage their health and wellbeing. Wrexham University (WU), offers a nature-based social prescribing (NBSP) pathway for students to connect with green spaces on campus to support their wellbeing. The aim of this study is to evaluate the health and wellbeing benefits of NBSP pathway and the associated social value generated and the monetise the health outcomes from as a result access and use of high quality to greenspaces. Methods The evaluation applied a Social Return on Investment (SROI) mixed method approach. Data was collected via a one-time questionnaire capturing outcomes measures by means of the Short Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale, and a ‘Time spent in nature’ questions. SROI ratios were generated from two separate wellbeing valuation methods the social value calculator and the mental health social value calculator along with questions. Results SROI value ratios suggest that for every GBP £1 invested in WU NBSP, generated GBP between GB £1.45 and £2.38 of social value. Contingent Valuation analysis indicates that 86% of students value of accessing and using would participate in a similar NBSP pathway and associated health benefits. Students with an average weekly income of GBP £125 are on average willing to pay GBP £7 per session to access quality greenspace and the associated health and wellbeing benefits of WU NBSP pathway. Discussion The WU NBSP pathway generated positive social values for students which is consistent with evidence with other NBSP SROI studies. Based on the growing body of evidence universities should consider prioritising investment in NBSP services on campuses. Conclusions Investment in NBSP pathway could assist with improving student's mental health and wellbeing outcomes by linking them to local community assets as well as demonstrating a return saving for ever GB£1 invested. Key messages • Investing in good quality green space can enhance mental health and wellbeing. • Social value can be generated from investing in green spaces.

This study examines the contribution of Spor Istanbul AŞ to social sustainability goals through sport at the level of local authorities. Employing a qualitative research design, it analyses institutional reports published between 2019 and 2024 using content analysis. The findings reveal the role of sport in advancing social inclusion, health, education, and equality in relation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Spor Istanbul’s activities are closely aligned with social sustainability, particularly with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Operating with a public service mission rather than pursuing profit, the organisation evaluates the societal outcomes of its services through Social Return on Investment (SROI) reports. This perspective positions sport not merely as a form of physical activity, but as a strategic instrument for enhancing social well-being. By highlighting the role of sport in the social sustainability policies of local authorities, the study demonstrates its effectiveness as a public policy tool for promoting social justice and inclusion at the local level.

Social impact assessment has gained increasing attention in recent years, emphasizing the added value and social changes brought by project activities alongside the sustainability of social actions. This study evaluates the economic and social impact of a robotics research project culminating in the development of Hannes, an advanced prosthetic hand resulting from collaboration between the Italian Institute of Technology and the Italian National Insurance Institute. Hannes is used in robotic assistance to treat individuals with upper limb differences. Data were collected through a clinical study involving myoelectric prostheses users who underwent functional and psychosocial assessments before and after using Hannes. The Social Return On Investment (SROI) methodology is employed to evaluate the impacts of the robotic device by analyzing qualitative, quantitative, and financial data to estimate the value created by research activities. Preliminary results suggest that for every euro invested, approximately 9 euros of social value are generated. This revelation highlights the substantial positive impact of Hannes and underscores the potential for further advancements in the field of robotics to improve the lives of individuals with limb loss. By providing a comprehensive analysis, this research contributes to understanding the broader social benefits of innovative healthcare technologies that mitigate social inequalities.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-025-15652-y.