Social Value vs. Social Impact: Moving Beyond Box-Ticking

Send us Fan MailAre companies genuinely committed to creating social impact, or is it all just elaborate PR? In this thought-provoking conversation with Jimmy Cockerton, CEO of Impact Advantage, we cut through the noise surrounding social value measurement to reveal what's really happening beneath the surface.While headlines might suggest companies are retreating from ESG commitments, Jimmy observes the opposite trend behind closed doors - more organisations are recognising how delivering impact connects directly to business success. Yet this enthusiasm often fails to translate into meaningful change. We explore what separates authentic impact-led organisations from those merely seeking positive publicity through one-off community initiatives.The discussion tackles the fundamental flaws in current social value measurement frameworks that encourage box-ticking rather than addressing root causes of social challenges. Through practical examples like employment metrics, we demonstrate how companies can claim substantial "social value" without creating any new impact whatsoever. Of the billions reportedly generated in social value through public procurement, Jimmy provocatively suggests only a tiny fraction represents genuine new value for communities.We also examine the untapped potential of cross-sector collaboration by leveraging what each does best - businesses excel at making money and innovation, while social enterprises better understand communities and delivering impact. However, political short-termism presents a significant barrier to solving complex social issues that require decades of sustained effort rather than quick fixes aligned to electoral cycles.The evidence increasingly shows that businesses prioritising social impact alongside financial returns tend to outperform their peers financially - a compelling case for integrating impact into core strategy rather than treating it as a peripheral activity. Whether you're in business, government, or the social sector, this episode offers critical insights for anyone seeking to move beyond performative metrics toward creating genuine, lasting change.Connect with Jimmy on LinkedIn or visit www.impactadvantage.co.uk to learn more about measuring real social impact that transforms communities and businesses alike.Support the showHi, I'm Heidi Fisher, the host of the Make an Impact Podcast.  I'm an impact measurement expert, passionate about helping you make a bigger impact in the world by maximising the impact your services have. I can help you to measure, manage and communicate the impact you have better to funders, investors, commissioners and other stakeholders, and to systemise your data collection and analysis so that it frees up time and doesn't become an additional burden.  I love helping you to measure social and economic impacts, including Social Return on Investment or value for money assessments, as part of understanding the change you make to peoples' lives. You can get in touch via LinkedIn or the website makeanimpactcic.co.uk if you'd like to find out more about working with me.