This study uses data from the 2005 and 2007
Citizenship Survey to map broad differences
in levels of volunteering and social capital
between ninety different types of place in
England, characterised by their regional
location and level of deprivation. A measure of
social capital in each type of place is
constructed using a multivariate multilevel
statistical model and the association with rates
of volunteering is then examined. The results
show a positive association at the area level
between the level of formal volunteering and
informal volunteering and the level of social
capital. The rate of both formal and informal
volunteering was, however, unrelated to the
level of social capital after controlling for area
deprivation. These results raise concerns
about the ability of volunteering to change the
social characteristics of deprived areas
independently of their material circumstances.
Communities have strengths primarily in areas
concerned with maintaining social order rather
than creating economic growth. Policies to
tackle area deprivation need to concentrate on
linking deprived areas up to economic
opportunities in more affluent surrounding
areas rather than on local strategies based on
self-help.