Towards a More Inclusive Society: The Social Return on Investment (SROI) of an Innovative Ankle–Foot Orthosis for Hemiplegic Children

Hemiplegia is a form of disability that affects one side the body and has prevalence 0.5–0.7 per 1000 live births. It consequences not only at medical level but also on psychological, cognitive, social aspects, it prevents children from participation, especially in sports settings. The studies demonstrating impact hemiplegic population and, particular, children, are limited. In addition, previous evaluations healthcare initiatives available, traditional methods evaluation, which mostly focused economic outcomes, applicable. Thus, this article employs return investment (SROI) methodology, able to determine socio-economic impacts an initiative, evaluate innovative ankle–foot orthosis (AFO) for was created promote possibility “sports all”. model designed with involvement stakeholders all phases mixed assess input, indicators. final SROI, computed time horizon three years focus Lombardy Region, equal 3.265:1. Based result, initiative turned out be worthy investment.