Our social impact
Non-formal education with purpose. Real change. A future built with confidence.
The Award changes lives. Literally. Through the experiences it offers young people and the opportunities it opens for adults, the programme creates tangible social value – meaning a positive impact on society that can be measured financially, yet is deeply felt in communities, families and individual lives.
What is social value?
The Award changes lives. Literally. Through the experiences it offers young people and the opportunities it opens for adults, the programme creates tangible social value – a positive impact on society that can be measured financially, but is profoundly felt in communities, families and individual futures.
Social value reflects the difference the programme makes in the lives of young people and those who support them – from building self-confidence, increasing leadership potential, forming healthy habits and engaging in civic life, to improving employment prospects and community involvement.
This value is quantified through a rigorous evaluation model developed by The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, in partnership with PwC UK (PricewaterhouseCoopers) and other international academic partners. The assessment combines quantitative research, field impact data, and economic indicators to determine the value the programme creates, both now and in the future.
2023 Global Numbers
- 256.167 young people completed the Award in 2023.
- £940 million – social value generated in a single year.
- £2,47 billion – estimated long-term value, thanks to the healthy habits and life skills these young people will carry throughout their lives.
- On average, each participant generates an estimated £9,700 in social value over their lifetime.
What does this impact look like in real life?
For young people: The Award is a transformative experience. Through exploration, volunteering, sport and personal development, participants become more motivated, confident and prepared for the challenges of the modern world. They discover their potential, learn perseverance, and begin to truly believe in their dreams.
For communities: Award participants become active agents of change – engaged volunteers, responsible neighbours, empathetic citizens.
For adults who support them – teachers, parents, Award Leaders, mentors – the programme provides meaning and satisfaction. They contribute directly to shaping a new generation while developing their own leadership, communication and teamwork skills.
For society: The results are visible in reduced inequalities, increased social cohesion, improved mental health, and better-prepared young people entering the workforce.
Impact in Romania
In Romania, the programme has been officially implemented since 2013 under the patronage of Her Majesty Margareta, Custodian of the Romanian Crown, and has involved nearly 14,000 young people and over 2,500 adults to date – including teachers, youth workers and volunteers.
The Award is present in schools, NGOs, public institutions and communities across the country – including vulnerable environments. Through dedicated projects, we have reached young people in care homes, juvenile detention centres, rural communities, people with disabilities, and refugees – for whom this experience has been not only valuable but sometimes a turning point in life.
Why does It matter?
We invest in people. We create value. We build the future.
In a world marked by instability, rapid technological change and global challenges, non-formal education is more important than ever. Young people need spaces where they can learn through experience, safely test their limits, and discover their voice. The Award provides exactly this framework – and the data confirms its value.
Be part of the change. Shape the future with us.
Getting involved with the Award is more than a gesture of social responsibility – it is a direct investment in the future of a generation.
Through strategic partnerships, sponsorships, or corporate volunteering, companies can become allies in developing confident, engaged and resilient young people. Sustainability is not just about ecology – it’s also about building a fair, educated society prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. Join the global network of companies supporting the Award and be part of the positive impact we create together, in Romania and worldwide.
Want to learn more?
Read the full global report: Building the Future – Social Value Report
Or contact us to discuss how you can support or implement the Award in your community.