Cole, I., E. Batty, et al. (2011). Low-income neighbourhoods in Britain: the gap between policy ideas and residents' realities. York, Joseph Rowntree Foundation.
This JRF report is based on the findings of a four-year qualitative research study which examines the relationship between 'poverty' and 'place' in six low-income areas in the UK (Amlwch in Wales; West Kensington in London; Oxgangs near Edinburgh, Scotland; West Marsh near Grimsby; Wensley near Blackburn, Lancashire; and Hillside in Merseyside). The report explores the influence of 'place' in people's perceptions, actions and decisions, drawing on interviews with residents to explain different patterns of neighbourhood change. The report found that people's sense of belonging with particular communities was strongest in the most economically disadvantaged areas, where residents relied heavily on social and family networks for support. The report argues that radical thinking about the fate of areas with long-term deprivation and poverty is required, for deprived communities cannot rely only on their own resources to produce change because they are disadvantaged by weaker housing and labour markets.