Abstract Introduction
Work improves the wellbeing of individuals, their families and communities, both from an economic and a quality of life (QoL) perspective. Evidence demonstrates a decline in mental and physical health related to unemployment. Thus, supporting individuals to overcome barriers to work is essential to tackling economic and health inequalities. The Black Country IMPACT project aims to support people aged 15 to 29 into employment, education or training (EET). We have evaluated the local return on investment (ROI) of this project in Walsall.
Methods
IMPACT client data were manipulated in an adaptation of an established ROI tool to calculate economic ROI and gain in quality adjusted life years (QALYs).
Results
Between 2016 - 2019, 2927 individual clients were supported by IMPACT, of which 30.7% had SEND. At follow up, 30.6% of clients had maintained EET – 29.2% of those with SEND and 31.3% of those without. Ten percent of clients were supported into employment, equating to an overall gain of 10 QALYs, valued at a total of £591,700. The financial benefit to society of each individual returning to work was £25,600; totalling £3,879,700 overall in the 3 year period.
Conclusions
We quantified the economic and QoL ROI of the IMPACT project in Walsall, considering solely clients gaining employment. However, ongoing evaluation will enable more holistic measurement of client outcomes to include broader indicators of health and wellbeing, and offer further insights into the value of this programme. Findings will identify the most effective pathways through the programme and inform individualised support. External funding details