Locality Matters. Making participation count in local politics

Is there really anything anyone can do to encourage civic life and increase public engagement in political life? The research presented here suggests clearly that there is. The authors argue that while poverty and inequality and community strength help shape levels of political participation, they do not determine them. The way institutions work and the way those in charge behave makes a difference to whether people choose to participate.

This book is based on research undertaken in the localities of Middlesbrough, Hull, Merton, Sutton, East Hampshire and Vale of White Horse.