25% of adults and 10% of children experience mental health issues. People from a disadvantaged background are disproportionately affected, while 90% of people with a mental health problem also experience stigma and discrimination.
Social impact investment is helping social business models build evidence for digital and community-based support for people experiencing mental health issues. It’s also piloting and scaling preventative mental health provision. Revenue is primarily generated through commissioned services, including outcomes-based payments. High-quality impact measurement is essential in this area, to understand changes for patients and clients, and to secure contracts from commissioners.
Social enterprises, charities, and social purpose organisations are helping people improve their mental health and wellbeing and develop confidence in the face of challenges. The benefit to the wider community can be seen in the improved understanding of mental health issues, and in fairer access to quality mental health services.
