To Climb a Mountain? Social Inclusion and Outdoor Recreation in Britain

Abstract

Despite the importance of social inclusion policies for outdoor recreation in Britain, there is some debate over their effectiveness. Young people and the disabled as well as ethnic minorities and the less well off, all take part in outdoor recreation proportionately less than other sectors in society. The British literature has identified that this could partly result from a desire not to rather than simply not having the opportunity to recreate in the countryside. Twelve case studies that have attempted to develop inclusive policies for recreation are examined. They are likely to be most successful if they are community driven, they are empowering and they increase social cohesion. Partnerships that involve outreach staff also are most likely to succeed. Evaluations of projects should be qualitative as well as quantitative if their real success is to be uncovered and initiatives should be appropriately marketed. Fixed term funding is a common problem for socially inclusive outdoor recreation initiatives and a paternalistic ethos also can threaten their success.

Key words:

• welfarism
• merit goods
• empowerment
• partnership
• social cohesion