Social Capital and Place
‘Social capital’ is a term for the value created by social connections and relationships in society. It is an important part of quality of life and wellbeing, now and in the future. Although there are different definitions, common themes include:
- the quality of social networks
- how people feel about their neighbours and neighbourhoods
- the power, control and influence that people feel they have over their circumstances, and
- levels of social participation
Social capital is formed in the physical spaces where people meet and interact in their neighbourhoods. These social spaces, particularly where they are affordable and accessible, enable the growth of social ties between different groups in communities.
The COVID pandemic affected how people live, work and connect with each other. A review, published in 2024 of social capital and community wellbeing found positive perceptions of neighbourhoods in communities across Scotland, and some improvements since before the pandemic, but also some aspects of social capital that are not as strong and have worsened. Loneliness increased, and fewer people were volunteering formally and meeting socially once a week.
Social capital is unevenly distributed. The research found differences between local authorities, and between people living in more or less deprived areas. People in rural areas often have higher social capital than those in urban settings. There are also inequalities for different groups such as by age, gender, disability and ethnicity. Disabled people are over twice as likely to feel lonely, feel less safe in their neighbourhoods, and are less likely to meet socially as often as non-disabled people. Loneliness is highest among the youngest (16-24) and oldest (over 75) age groups.
Social capital strengthens neighbourhoods and can improve wellbeing, health and quality of life. It can help communities cope with adversity, and can lead to employment, skills and education opportunities, helping people change their circumstances. Social connections provide opportunities for meeting new people, and accessing the organisations and processes that have power and help people make decisions over their lives.
Additional resources
Social capital and community wellbeing in Scotland
The Scottish Government report provides information about the extent and nature of social connections and social capital in Scotland from 2018/2019 - 2022. It draws on a range of data, from both the Scottish Household Survey and qualitative research, to explore social capital in Scotland.