Social capital among school students in disadvantaged communities

  The Benevolent Society and the University of Western Sydney recently carried out research to measure social capital in schools in two disadvantaged communities in New South Wales. Social Capital is defined as networks of trust and reciprocity that link multiple individuals together, and has been shown to facilitate a range of positive outcomes for individuals and communities. This research found that school students with higher levels of social capital tended to show better mental and physical health, academic self-concept, sense of belonging in the school and community and lower levels of perceived discrimination. The Benevolent Society and the University of Western Sydney are continuing to research social capital in high schools over the next three years. We are working to strengthen local communities in South West Sydney through an initiative called Growing Communities Together. This initiative aims to make communities stronger and more resilient by increasing social support networks, community connections and involvement in community organisations and decision-making. &nbsp