Since the publication of the first edition of this book there has been a growing recognition in practice and policy of how networks contribute to the vitality of community life and civil society. Government policy has increasingly emphasised the need to involve communities in decision making, while social capital is increasingly associated with health, low levels of crime, educational achievement and a strong ‘sense of community’. This book aims to strengthen and extend informal networks, support partnership working across boundaries and promote social cohesion. It explores the concept of ‘com ... More

Since the publication of the first edition of this book there has been a growing recognition in practice and policy of how networks contribute to the vitality of community life and civil society. Government policy has increasingly emphasised the need to involve communities in decision making, while social capital is increasingly associated with health, low levels of crime, educational achievement and a strong ‘sense of community’. This book aims to strengthen and extend informal networks, support partnership working across boundaries and promote social cohesion. It explores the concept of ‘community’ in relation to patterns of interaction, social identity and mutual influence, advocating a new model of community development that promotes networking as a skilled and strategic intervention and providing recommendations for good networking practice. This updated second edition includes new ideas drawn from recent research on social capital and the policy context for community practice, reflecting the increasing emphasis on community engagement and empowerment. Recent case studies and examples have been added throughout.