Social Return on Investment Analysis: A Case Study of a Job and Skills Training Program Administered by the French Labor Ministry

Background The program “Réalise Tes Rêves” (Make your dreams come true; RtR) was a program of action research aimed at trialing new approaches to address the job seeking needs of people not in employment, education or training (NEETs), and unemployed women in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Objective This study examines the use of social return on investment (SROI), a social valuation methodology, to examine and capture the broad socio-economic value of the employment program RtR. Methods Qualitative data was collected from 54 program participants and 21 program staff. The analysis was also informed by program data such as program components engaged in by participants, retention and exit outcomes. Results Positive outcomes were identified for the program participants, program staff, and the community. The most important direct outcomes were the increase in personal assets, enhanced career prospects, and health improvements. The SROI ratio was €16.62 for every €1 invested. Conclusions This study illustrates the program's tangible and intangible program outcomes by applying SROI methodology and demonstrates the social impact of supporting employment and self-employment for disadvantaged job seekers.