Development, Social Policy and Community Action

Book excerpt: "How do citizens in poor communities benefit from and perceive state interventions? How do citizens in poor communities interact with others in the community to promote the well-being of themselves and their families? What are the implications of the above for community based research, policy and practice? Development, Social Policy and Community Action: Lessons from Below addresses these questions based on rigorous and multi-faceted research conducted in the poor, urban area of Doornkop, Soweto, using a range of different methodological approaches and theoretical perspectives that all broaden our understanding of citizen-community-state interactions indisadvantaged, urban communities in Soth Africa. Solutions to poverty and inequality are often designed, implemented and evaluated in a topdown manner, thereby disregarding the views and agency of the poor citizens themselves. Addressing this gap, the authors explore how government assistance, through social grants and services, as well as community support mechanisms provide solutions to citizens in poorcommunities and the ways that the citizens perceive and make use of such interventions. This research study points to the need for more nuanced policy strategies and interventions pertinent to local challenges which also resonate with the global search for solutions in similar contexts. With a fresh perspective that addresses the interconnections between state interventions, community and citizens in sustainable social development, this book provides a case for the importance of conducting community-based research that effectively encourages research findings to support communities to effect positive change."--