This paper examines the research on the relationship between social capital and crime. It specifically considers the evidence on whether a person’s social capital (personal networks and community cohesion) reduces the risk that they will break the law. It presents nine guidelines for policymakers.

This report examines the evidence that social capital has profound consequences for a nation’s health, from building resilience and emotional health to preventing the decline into physical health problems. It makes the case that government should increase activities that strengthen social capital and networks to support people to live healthier lives.

This briefing paper defines the concept of social capital, forming the basis for a series that examines its impact across economic and social outcomes. The definition of social capital contains four main elements: trust / reciprocity, collective efficacy, social networks and social integration for mutual benefit.

This report examines the evidence that social capital acts as a protective shield for children, families and communities under stress and makes the case that government should increase activities that strengthen social capital and networks to support families to stay safely together. It identifies four mechanisms to strengthen social capital to support families.