SROI-UK Network

SROI is an approach to understanding and managing the impacts of a project, organisation or policy. It is based on stakeholders and puts financial value on the important impacts identified by stakeholders that do not have market values.

SROI is an account of value creation and the account requires a mix of information including qualitiative, quantitative and financial. In the same way as quoting a financial return on investment without any other information, the SROI ratio, by itself, has little meaning. The range of judgement that is permissible within an SROI analysis means that comparisons of SROI ratios alone are not recommended. Comparison of forecast and actual ratios provide the starting point for an understanding the reasons for the difference which will also need to draw on other types of information.

Whilst we do not believe that investors will make decisions based on a single indicator, or that commissioners would be able to use a ratio as part of their decisions, we recognise that this could become part of the information that informs and influences decisions.

SROI will help

• provide a consistent and clear approach to understanding and reporting on the changes caused by an organisation; 
• organisations improve strategies, systems and accountability; and
• manage risks, identify opportunities and raise finance required to achieve their mission or strategy

SROI can help you plan. By forecasting the value you expect to create using SROI, you may identify areas where you need to change, often in the way you collect information. Improving the information you use to report performance and being able to compare performance against forecasts will help you create more value.

If you want to carry out an SROI analysis, there are a number of ways in which you can get support

One of the objectives of the SROI Network is to develop more consistency in the use of SROI. If you have your report assured you will be know that it has been prepared in line with the principles of SROI and is therefore to a consistent standard.

Click here for a copy of the assurance process.

AccreditED PractiTIoner

In order to become an accredited practitioner, applicants will need to

• be a member of the SROI Network
• prove that they have completed approved Accredited Practitioner training before the date of their application. 
• provide a CV (1 A4 page) and a statement of involvement and interest in SROI (1 A4 page)
• submit an SROI report for assurance

SROI is based on a set of principles. These are the building blocks for SROI analysis and the assurance process focuses on compliance with these principles.

If you are planning on commissioning an SROI analysis, there are a couple of questions you should consider.