Lifeline Aotearoa generates an estimated $7.50 in social value for every $1 invested, as detailed our Social Return on Investment (SROI) report.
That value reaches callers, their whānau and the wider system through better wellbeing, greater safety in moments of crisis, and reduced pressure on emergency departments, ambulance, Police and acute mental health services.
Key findings of the report:
• Key figures from the Lifeline Social Return on Investment Report 2026: $7.50 social value for every $1 invested (primary, conservative estimate); up to $12.10 for every $1 under an alternative evidence-informed scenario; $14.73 million estimated annual social value; 49,399 answered calls and responded text conversations annually; more than 100,000 calls received annually (FY 2024/25 time period viewed by report).
• Greater impact scenario (20 percent more capacity): approximately 59,279 interactions a year and $17.68 million in annual social value, an additional $2.95 million.
• The report uses a Forecast SROI methodology, drawing on Lifeline operational data, stakeholder evidence, international research and New Zealand Treasury CBAx financial proxies. It was prepared by PSN's Service Evaluation Team and submitted for independent assurance through Social Value International.
• Lifeline has provided free, confidential support to people in distress across Aotearoa New Zealand for more than 60 years. It is a service of Presbyterian Support Northern.