Attachment to place : social networks, mobility and prospects of young people

Abstract

How social networks and attachment to place shape young people's attitudes towards education, training and work opportunities. This study also looks at the scope for interventions to 'widen horizons' and enhance access to opportunities. Through case studies of three deprived neighbourhoods – the New Deal for Communities areas in Hull, Walsall and Wolverhampton – the study: - examines the implications for people and places of economic restructuring and the operation of labour markets; - considers the importance of family and friends in social networks; - examines whether attachment to place is a strength or a weakness for young people's employment prospects; - explores the extent to which geography can restrict young people’s choices of training, jobs and careers; - assesses whether 'wider horizons' would improve training and employment prospects.