Regeneration of poor neighbourhoods 'must not ignore social networks' » Communities » 24dash.com

Regeneration of deprived neighbourhoods often focuses on improving the physical environment, but a new study shows that more attention should be given to encouraging and protecting social networks if residents are to feel attached to the area in which they live.

Giving greater priority to applicants for social housing with local area connections might help to strengthen these networks.

Research published today by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) suggests that having strong social networks such as family and friends in an area can help residents deal with the problems that come with living in some deprived neighbourhoods and with the problems of crime and insecurity.

The research shows that people are less likely to feel ‘attached’ to deprived areas than more affluent areas; this is likely to be because residents of deprived neighbourhoods tend to rate their area lower on the strength of social networks and cohesion and crime and safety.

If individuals are more attached to the area in which they live they are likely to stay longer and participate more in community life.

Housing and regeneration work that focuses on improving crime and safety within deprived areas and that supports social networks will improve residents’ attachment to an area and the overall cohesion and sustainability of the community.

Mark Livingston, co-author of the research, said:  “Policy makers need to see the social fabric of communities as well as the physical fabric. It is too easy for regeneration efforts to disrupt the former while trying to address problems with the latter.”