The Community Development Reader: History, Themes and Issues

Community development emerged as a recognisable occupational activity in the United Kingdom in the 1950s. Since then, whilst struggling to remain true to its basic values it has often been manipulated to serve differing policy and political purposes. This unique Reader traces its changing fortunes through a selection of readings from key writers. It will be invaluable to those pursuing community development careers, for activists, and for all those teaching, training and practising community development.

Gary Craig is a Visiting Professor at the Law School, Newcastle University and at the University of York. He previously worked as a community development activist. He has researched and published widely in the fields of ‘poverty, ‘race’ and ethnicity and modern slavery; He co-convenes the national network Modern Slavery Research Consortium.

Marjorie Mayo is Emeritus Professor of Community Development, Goldsmiths, University of London. Her research has included learning for active citizenship, and access to justice in disadvantaged communities.

Keith Popple is a researcher, author and Emeritus Professor of Social Work at London South Bank University. He has contributed widely to the areas of social work, community development and social policy. He is editor and contributor to several books including as author of Analysing Community Work: Theory and Practice (Open University Press).

Mae Shaw is Honorary Fellow in the Moray House School of Education and Sport at the University of Edinburgh, UK.

Marilyn Taylor, Visiting Professor at Birkbeck, University of London Marilyn Taylor teaches in the areas of community involvement in neighbourhood renewal, partnerships, community participation. Her research interests include neighbourhood renewal, civil renewal, accountability, community participation and empowerment, voluntary and community sector role and development.