Welfare Reform on the Web (November 2011): Community regeneration and development - overseas

Community work in Hong Kong: changing agenda in the recent phase of economic globalization

K.K. Fung and S.L. Hung

Community Development Journal, vol.46, 2011, p. 458-475

The most recent phase of economic globalisation has created a context of deteriorating opportunities and increasing risk for disadvantaged communities in Hong Kong. At the same time the Hong Kong government has reduced support for its existing community development service and has placed an increased emphasis on the importance of the community in serving the elderly, children alone at home, and families in need. This emphasis on the community shouldering the burden of caring for individual members echoes a similar trend in Western countries in the current phase of economic globalisation.

Participating in social, civic and community life: are we all equal?

S. Hodgkin

Australian Social Work, vol.64, 2011, p.245-265

This epidemiological study sought to examine participation in social, civic and community life in a regional city in Australia. In particular, it sought to determine which demographic factors fostered and impeded participation. The data suggested that social exclusion may be prevalent among certain demographic groups. Gender, along with income, education and neighbourhood, worked together to predict different types of participation. The degree to which individuals participated in dense social networks made up of family, friends and neighbours was related to being female, of lower socioeconomic status, and being connected with their immediate neighbours.

'You are taking who?! To a national conference on social policy?': a place for youth in the social policy life of their communities

E.M. Sullivan and others

Community Development Journal, vol. 46, 2011, p. 511-525

Newfoundland and Labrador has experienced the failure of the ground fish industry, high unemployment, eroding infrastructure and ensuing high levels of out-migration. These factors have resulted in the leaving behind of those with least capacity to relocate and market themselves in more economically viable areas. Most vulnerable are the young people left behind in remote and rural areas. This article describes a research project aimed at building the capacity of young people by augmenting their understanding of the role and shaping of social policy. It was assumed that this understanding would increase their capacity for future meaningful community participation. The paper identifies the factors that impede and support youth engagement in the social policy life of their communities. It concludes by noting some positive outcomes for young participants and suggests future directions for research.