This paper examines the research on the relationship between social capital and crime. It considers the fundamental question: whether a person’s social capital (i.e. personal networks and community cohesion) reduces the risk that they will break the law. The paper demonstrates that there is a relationship between different types of social capital and criminal activity. It presents nine guidelines for policymakers.

This paper is the fourth and final in a series on Social Capital 2025 examining the contribution that strengthening social capital makes to improving economic and social outcomes, including for children, wellbeing and reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

Policy guidelines

1. Adopt a multidimensional approach.
2. Use Situational Action Theory (SAT), a framework to understand the interplay between personal, environmental and situational factors.
3. Improve positive forms of social capital and networks.
4. Improve environmental design.
5. Provide support for at-risk individuals.
6. Support offender rehabilitation.
7. Collaborate with stakeholders.
8. Focus on education and morality.
9. Use date-driven decision making.