Central England Co-operative has identified the monetary value of the impact of its community projects in a new report.

Its Social Return on Investment (SROI) report found that every £1 the Society invests in community projects is worth £20.50 to the local community.

The project, which was undertaken by SROI specialist ‘Make a Difference CIC’, focused on the social value and return provided by the Society’s community dividend fund, SENse to Aspire scheme and local activities organised for members.  

The findings from the report will now be used to play a major part in shaping the future of the Society, it said.

Central England Co-operative chief executive Martyn Cheatle said: “We took the decision to undertake this new form of robust analysis of our community impact in order to inform future decision making and ensure that we continue to make a real difference to people’s lives.

“The success of our community initiatives as demonstrated in our SROI report is only possible due to the continued success of our trading businesses. 

“The ability to continue with this investment is fuelled by the society’s strong financial performance and long term strategy to deliver future business growth in a sustainable way.”

A total of £1.19m was invested into community causes, charity and supporting co-operatives during 2015/16 by the Society.