Social Exclusion, Urban Regeneration and Economic Reintegration

The increasing spatial concentration of the disadvantaged has resulted in the isolation of many individuals and households from mainstream social and economic activities. This paper is concerned with the exclusion of these individuals from the labour market. This in turn constitutes a considerable barrier to the ability of individuals and households to access services, facilities and networks in the wider economy and society. Recognising the impact of wider macroeconomic forces, the paper reviews and assesses policies aimed to address this problem at the neighbourhood level. Programmes considered include the creation of employment opportunities within disadvantaged neighbourhoods and those which aim to build links between these areas and the wider labour market. The potential contribution of housing programmes and expenditure is assessed. The complex nature of the problem is highlighted leading to an emphasis on the need for multi-sectoral solutions.