RDA Policy to Tackle Economic Exclusion? The Role of Social Capital in Distressed Communities

Abstract

Social capital is increasingly seen by policy makers as an important pathway in distressed communities to increased economic inclusion. By helping individuals and groups develop confidence, social networks, and trust and norms, social capital can enhance the employability of individuals and the employment capacities of communities. An assessment was made as to whether the social capital of individuals the distressed communities of North East of England could be enhanced by local community development programmes – which are increasingly seen as alternative mechanism for improving economic inclusion – and whether the employability and employment opportunities of programme participants increased. Based on this assessment, several policy recommendations are made.