Practitioners and policy-makers increasingly recognise that children's lives are shaped by the interplay between family relationships, social context, the individual and the community. They use the concept of social capital to describe and explain how these factors are linked, and to predict their impact on childrens health, educational attainments and general wellbeing. The studies, analysis and tools listed below reflect current debates on the components of family and community social capital, and our ability to measure it. While most research shows that horizontal bonding, community co-operation and civic engagement can enhance participation, access to resources and uptake of services, some empirical studies point out that national policies and financial commitment are essential to ensuring everyone can benefit from them.
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October 2004
November 1998
Ed
2002
June 2006