At SHIFT we are pleased that our environmental reporting scheme for social landlords aligns extremely well with the current ESG reporting criteria (see our publications page for the SHIFT ESG matrix). We also know that environmental protection is crucial for our long-term wellbeing by reducing the risk of our homes flooding or overheating, by ensuring food security and good air quality. Given the connection between environmental impact and long-term wellbeing, we are complementing our services with social impact measuring. The ESG reporting initiative is the ideal vehicle for this. As readers may already be aware, ESG reporting is crucial for securing loans for new social landlords and includes an element of social impact. As well as securing finance, there are other financial benefits to landlords for pursuing social impact strategies:
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homes that maximise wellbeing for residents could rent faster and for longer periods, with increased tenant satisfaction[1]
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offices that promote staff wellbeing report up to 56% reduction in absenteeism and 3% increase in productivity[2]
We’re teaming up with an expert social impact consultancy, which is an accredited company partner of the Market Research Society. Their researchers are also individual members of the Social Research Association, as well as the Market Research Society. They draw on Government and industry best practice to design approaches to measuring social outcomes and impacts for not for profit organisations and look at how social impact links to commercial returns for corporate clients. Their client list includes:
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Not for profits: The Gatsby Foundation, The Stroke Association, NSPCC, Young Minds and local authorities
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Commercial organisations: BT, BUPA, O2 and Sky.
Their insights and evidence feed into the development of social impact programmes and are included in ESG reports produced by their commercial clients. SHIFT’s partnership means that our expertise in ‘Environment’ analysis and reporting can be combined with their understanding of ‘Social’ impact to cover more aspects of ESG reporting. Our combined experience means we can also go beyond the data to advise you on how to maximise your positive impact, as well as provide the evidence funders are looking for that you are a responsible organisation.
ESG reporting methodology is very novel for the sector. We want to work with landlords to provide an initial ESG report where we cover both the Environmental and Social aspects of the ESG reporting methodology.
Please get in touch to discuss further: [email protected]
[1] Health and wellbeing in homes, UKGBC, 2016
[2] WELL AP training notes